HC Deb 21 March 1946 vol 420 cc2021-2
68. Mr. Erroll

asked the Minister of Health what percentage of the houses approved by his Department for construction during the next 12 months' will be provided with oil-fuel heating; and Whether, in view of the increasing short age of coal, he is taking steps to advise local authorities to favour such installations.

Mr. Bevan

As far as I am aware none of the plans submitted by local authorities provide for oil fuel heating; and I do not think it would be appropriate to make the recommendation suggested. I would also refer the hon. Member to the reply given by my right hon. Friend the Minister of Fuel and Power to the hon. and gallant Member for Chertsey (Captain Marsden) on 5th March.

Mr. Erroll

Is it the intention of the Minister that householders in this country should become the perpetual victims of the declining coal output?

Mr. Bevan

HON. MEMBERS are aware that we have made a number of recommendations for the installation of fuel-saving appliances in houses under construction. If the hon. Member for Altrin-cham and Sale (Mr. Erroll) is not aware of these facts, I will acquaint him with them in a circular.