HC Deb 24 July 1947 vol 440 cc1576-7
31. Squadron-Leader Donner

asked the Minister of Fuel and Power whether he is aware that last year's fuel allocation to many blocks of flats in London has been reduced by 20 per cent. while other previously unrationed and useful fuels have now been rationed; arid what steps he proposes to take to ensure that the heating and hot water services in such flats ran be maintained throughout the year.

Mr. Shinwell

I am glad to be able to say that as a result of action taken to ease the coke supply position the 20 per cent. cut in allocations to programmed consumers, including blocks of flats, has now been reduced to 10 per cent. The position will be reviewed again before the winter, but with due care and economy I do not feel that a reduction of 10 per cent. should affect the heating and hot water services of blocks of flats. The inclusion of previously unrationed fuels in the restriction is necessary to ensure fairer distribution while the present acute shortage of domestic fuel persists.

Squadron-Leader Donner

Has the right hon. Gentleman taken into consideration the fact that many proprietors have warned tenants that they will suffer unprecedented hardships and discomfort this winter unless more fuel is allocated to them?

Mr. Shinwell

I can hardly imagine that the hardships will be unprecedented.