HC Deb 19 June 1947 vol 438 cc2197-8
13. General Sir George Jeffreys

asked the Minister of Fuel and Power whether he is aware that a form was sent by the Coke Directorate of his Department to Churcher's College, Petersfield, Hampshire, informing them that their previous allocation of coke had been cancelled and that their basic allocation for the 12 months, 1st May, 1947, to 30th April, 1948, is nil tons; that it is possible only to allocate nil tons, divided as to nil tons per month in the summer and nil tons per month in the winter; that the name of the supplier is also indicated; and whether he will eliminate such unnecessary form filling and substitute a shorter form of intimation in cases where no allocation of coke is made.

Mr. Shinwell

Requirements for Churcher's College, Petersfield, have been included in the allocation made to the Hampshire County Council. I regret that the notification that their previous allocation had accordingly been cancelled was sent out in the manner stated and steps have now been taken to see that this does not occur again.

Sir G. Jeffreys

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that the statements he has made will give considerable satisfaction to those affected, but will he consider the simplification, and possibly the elimination of some more of the forms issued by his Ministry?

Mr. Shinwell

I must make a confession to hon. Members. I had not seen this form before and when I did see it for the first time I was appalled.