§ 23. Colonel Clarkeasked the Minister of Fuel and Power why the allocation of fuel to the alkali factories of I.C.I. in the northwest region was reduced from January last; and for how long this reduction will operate.
§ Mr. ShinwellExisting coal supply arrangements are designed to spread available supplies equitably to all industrial consumers, and the I.C.I. factories have been getting their fair share on this basis. Any question concerning the relative priority of particular firms or industries is now a matter for decision by the regional production boards.
§ Colonel ClarkeIs the Minister aware that according to the answer the Board of Trade gave me yesterday, the reduction of this allocation brought about a reduction of exports of 34,000 tons of alkali over February and March, and there was also an increase in price to the home consumer of about 5 per cent.?
§ Mr. ShinwellI am aware that I.C.I. have experienced some difficulty as regards exports because of the shortage of coal, but obviously if there is a shortage, we must allocate it on the basis of suitable priority.