HC Deb 12 June 1947 vol 438 cc1320-1
23. Wing-Commander Hulbert

asked the Minister of Fuel and Power under what authority a local fuel overseer acts in forbidding a consumer from changing his coal merchant; and if any appeal lies against the decision of the fuel overseer.

Mr. Shinwell

The power to grant or refuse a change of registration for coal supplies is vested in local fuel overseers by Article 30 of the Coal Distribution Order, 1943. An appeal against any local fuel overseer's decision on this matter may be made, under Article 55 of the same Order, to the regional coal officer.

Wing-Commander Hulbert

Does the right hon. Gentleman not think the time has come when these fuel overseers—little Hitlers—should be dispensed with?

Mr. Shinwell

I think not. The local fuel overseers render very valuable service.

Lieut.-Commander Gurney Braithwaite

Is there any machinery of appeal from the ruling of a regional officer to the right hon. Gentleman to get satisfaction?

Mr. Shinwell

Of course, there is always access to the Minister.

Mr. Quintin Hogg

Is there any facility for getting rid of our Fuel Minister?

Hon. Members

Oh.

Mr. Hogg

The right hon. Gentleman does not care a tinker's cuss.