§ 21. Sir Herbert Williamsasked the Minister of Fuel and Power if he will make a statement as to the duties of the National Fuel Advisory Council.
§ The Minister of Fuel and Power (Major Lloyd George)I propose shortly to appoint a Fuel Advisory Council to advise on certain major technical and economic problems of fuel and power production and utilisation which I should refer to them. Within the limits imposed by war conditions my Department has been at work on these problems and a volume of valuable information is being collected. My intention is that the Council shall consist of a small number of experts in the fields of science, economics and industry, and, while it will not have executive or regulatory functions, I feel sure it will render valuable service, especially during the reconstruction period. I hope to be in a position to make a further statement on this subject in due course.
§ Sir H. WilliamsWill my right hon. and gallant Friend give an assurance that it is not part of the duties of this body to tell us exactly what we have to use in our own houses?
§ Major Lloyd GeorgeYes, Sir.
§ Mr. KeelingWill the terms of reference include smoke abatement?
§ Major Lloyd GeorgeI should think so.
Mr. Graham WhiteWill it be within the functions of this Council to tender advice to the Minister on matters which have not been referred to them by him?
§ Major Lloyd GeorgeI should not reject that.
§ Mr. GallacherIs the Minister aware that he will never get anywhere with coal control and fuel advisory committees, until the Government take full control of the mines?