§ 21. Mr. James Griffithsasked the Minister of Fuel and Power whether he can now say whether it is his intention to introduce a scheme of domestic fuel rationing on the lines of the Annex to the White Paper on Coal [Cmd. 6364]?
Major Lloyd GeorgeThe response to the appeals I have made for the voluntary reduction of fuel consumption has been generally satisfactory, and, while every possible economy is still vitally necessary and restrictions on delivery of solid fuels will continue to be applied, I have every hope that the need for introducing a coupon rationing scheme will not arise.
§ Sir Percy HarrisDoes not this result reflect great credit on the housewives who have endeavoured to carry out the wishes of the right hon. and gallant Gentleman by exercising great economy and skill in the use of coal?
Major Lloyd GeorgeThe figures which I have from all over the country leave no doubt that very substantial economies have been made by domestic consumers, and I think they are entitled to the greatest credit for it.
§ Mr. GallacherShould not the Minister also give them great credit for the amount of stones which they are burning?
Major Lloyd GeorgeI do not accept altogether the hon. Member's statement about stones, but I would remind him that stones have to come up from the mines in the first place.
§ Sir Alfred BeitIs the reduction in consumption equivalent to the reduction in output?