§ 29. Mr. Griersonasked the Minister of Fuel and Power why his Department has seen fit to deplete the reserve of coal held at Crown Street, Carlisle, and has allocated the same to firms outside the area when the Carlisle textile industry is working short time owing to shortage of fuel.
§ Mr. GaitskellThe reserve of coal held at Crown Street, Carlisle, has been sold to industrial consumers nominated by the North-Western Area Emergency Advisory Committee, who are the programming authority for the district.
§ Mr. GriersonCan the Minister say why the local firms working on textiles were not given the opportunity of purchasing the coal in view of the acute shortage, 2202 and is he aware that, unless further supplies of coal are available, there is a possibility of certain of these industries closing down?
§ Mr. GaitskellAs my hon. Friend is aware the question of allocations to industry is a matter for the President of the Board of Trade. Perhaps he will address his question to my right hon. Friend.