HC Deb 09 April 1946 vol 421 cc1778-9
21. Mr. W. Shepherd

asked the Minister of Fuel and Power if he will consider a reduction in the price of household coal in view of the present content of slate and non-combustible materials

Mr. Shinwell

No, Sir. The presence of slate and non-combustible materials in supplies of household coal is not of general occurrence, and an all round reduction in price would not therefore be justified. A householder who considers that the coal supplied to him contains an abnormal amount of dirt should complain to his coal merchant, and failing satisfaction from that source, should report the matter to the local fuel overseer.

Mr. Shepherd

Does the Minister consider that he is justified in selling slate at the same price as coal; and is he not aware of the hardship which this causes to old age pensioners, as a great quantity of this material is non-combustible?

Mr. Shinwell

With the shortage of labour and other difficulties which confront the industry at present, it is not possible to provide coal with the same care as in normal times, but if the hon. Member has any specific instances, perhaps he will kindly indicate them to me.

Mr. Erroll

Can the Minister say where all the good coal goes to nowadays?

Mr. Shinwell

It is being well used.