§ 28. Sir Hugh Lucas-Toothasked the Minister of Fuel and Power whether he will consider revising the scheme for the allocation of coal to householders, particularly in contemplation of further acute stringency during the next winter; and, in particular, whether he will allow a greater weighting of the scale in favour of householders with old-fashioned houses and parents and others with extra needs for washing and warming in respect of young children.
§ Mr. ShinwellNo, Sir. It is open to any consumer who claims to have special needs to apply to the Local Fuel Overseer.
§ 32. Captain John Crowderasked the Minister of Fuel and Power whether de-mobilised ex-Servicemen who have just returned from service in the tropics are entitled to an extra allowance of fuel.
§ Mr. ShinwellNo, Sir, but if in any case there are special medical grounds, vouched for by medical certificate, application should be made to the local fuel overseer.
§ Captain CrowderIs the right hon. Gentleman aware that in one of the demobilisation centres in Lancashire the Advisory and Welfare Department have been telling soldiers that if they have served in India they are entitled to this extra allowance? Will he get in touch with the Secretary of State for War on 975 the matter, because these men are going to the fuel overseer for the extra allowance and are then being refused?
§ Mr. ShinwellThere would appear to be no ground for giving such information to the men concerned, but in view of what the hon. and gallant Member has said I will see that the matter is cleared up.