23. Mr. Keelinģasked the Minister of Fuel and Power what steps he is taking to provide sufficient smokeless solid fuel, to give effect to the recommendation of the Fuel and Power Advisory Council, that such fuel should replace bituminous coal in domestic use as rapidly as appliances for burning it are available.
§ 30. Mr. Bossomasked the Minister of Fuel and Power what steps he proposes to take with regard to the recommendations contained in the report by the Fuel and Power Advisory Council with regard to smoke abatement.
§ Mr. ShinwellIn conjunction with my right hon. Friends the Ministers of Health and Works I have set up an Inter-departmental Official Committee to consider and make recommendations upon the action required to implement the recommendations made in the report of the Fuel and Power Advisory Council. As far as increasing the supplies of solid smokeless fuel are concerned, I must point out that all possible steps are being taken to increase the production of all types of fuels, including smokeless fuels. The hon. Member will realise, however, that this problem is linked with that of the major reorganisation of the industry which is to take place when the National Coal Board has been set up.
Mr. KeelinģWill the Minister say whether, in order both to save coal and to reduce smoke, he is in favour of these recommendations being carried out, if they can be carried out?
§ Mr. ShinwellYes, Sir, to a very large extent.
§ Mr. BossomIs the Minister aware that if these recommendations are carried out they will be of considerable benefit to health, an economy by saving in cleaning, and a great economy in the use of fuel?
§ Mr. ShinwellI fully agree with the hon. Member. It is merely a question of securing the necessary appliances.