§ 16. Brigadier Raynerasked the Minister of Fuel and Power whether he has now considered the resolution passed by the Chamber of Commerce, a copy of which has been sent to him, referring to the large proportion of stone and dust in the coal delivered in Teignmouth; what reply he has sent; and whether, in this connection, he will submit a monthly progress report with regard to the improvement of screening and washing facilities for coal in this country.
§ Mr. ShinwellAs regards the first part of the Question the Teignmouth Chamber of Commerce have been advised of the steps to be taken by a consumer who receives a delivery of coal containing an undue proportion of stone and dust. As regards the second part of the Question the answer is in the negative. As I explained in the House on 2nd April there is 2199 inevitably some deterioration in the quality of coal at the present time. The National Coal Board are giving the matter urgent consideration as part both of their long term policy, for the installation of additional cleaning plant, and of shorter term arrangements to reduce the quantity of dirt.
§ Brigadier RaynerDoes the right hon. Gentleman appreciate that in the days when the industry was run by private enterprise coal sold as coal was really coal; and does he also realise that in those days I was not bombarded by letters from my constituents?
§ Mr. ShinwellI am afraid that in the days of private enterprise a lot of dirt was spread, and in many directions.
§ Mr. Henry StraussIn view of the terms of the right hon. Gentleman's original reply, will he state what he considers a due proportion of stone and dust?
§ Mr. ShinwellI did not say "a due proportion." I said "an undue proportion."
§ Mr. H. StraussYes, but what does the right hon. Gentleman mean by that?
§ Mr. ShinwellMore than is liked by the consumer.