HC Deb 16 May 1944 vol 400 cc20-1
38. Mr. Mathers

asked the Minister of Fuel and Power what prospect there is of householders receiving the restricted maximum quantity of 15 cwts. of coal during the months of May and June; and what is the weekly quantity per customer being received by merchants at present.

Mr. Tom Smith

Subject to possible changes in the supply and transport position there is, in my opinion, a reasonable prospect that in the regions where the maximum quantity is 15 cwt. for the two months of May and June, the majority of the consumers who require coal for consumption or stocking should be able to obtain that quantity. Supplies to merchants vary in different districts, but for the regions concerned they average about 1.1 cwt. per week per premises.

Mr. Mathers

Does not the Minister realise the impossibility of getting 15 cwts. in two months out of what he quotes as 1.1 cwt. per week? Is he further aware that in the majority of cases the merchants do not get sufficient supplies to enable them to deliver as much as 1 cwt. per week? In that case, is it not improper to give people the impression that they can get 15 cwts. in two months?

Mr. Smith

I think not, Sir.

Mr. Pethick-Lawrence

Is the hon. Gentleman aware that the supplies of coal to merchants have been actually cut down at a time when the public are led to believe that they are going to have more? This has resulted in very great difficulty in some places where merchants have not been able to supply even 1 cwt. a week.

Mr. Smith

It is perfectly true to say that supplies were cut down owing to the limited amount available a couple of months ago, but the position has certainly improved since then.

Mr. A. Bevan

In view of the fact that last year the House of Commons rejected a rationing scheme for householders in this country, would the hon. Gentleman ask his right hon. and gallant Friend to take an early opportunity of informing the House of Commons under what authority any of this rationing is done?