34. Mr. De la Bèreasked the Minister of Fuel and Power in view of the fact that the storage capacity for coal of the majority of the electricity power and generating stations in London and the provinces is from six to eight weeks supply, what steps he proposes to take to 637 ensure that this storage capacity is made full use of for a reserve stock of coal before the autumn and winter of 1947.
§ Mr. ShinwellThe Government are fully alive to the need for building up stocks not only at power stations but also at other consumers' works before next winter. The extent to which this will be possible and the measures that will have to be adopted for the purpose are at present under consideration.
Mr. De la BèreBut will the right hon. Gentleman do more than put them under consideration? Will he take action swift and sure to enable us to feel confidence that next winter we shall not be in the same jam as we are now?
Mr. ShimwellThat depends on a number of factors. We must first of all procure the coal and provide the transport. Having procured the coal and the transport, we must have the generating capacity available.
§ Mr. ShinwellAs I have told the hon. Member so often, apparently without effect, we are exporting very little.
§ Mr. BerryWill the right hon. Gentle man say whether it is proposed to continue the process which has been in operation for the last six years of consulting with representatives of the public utilities in this matter?
§ Mr. ShinwellAs the hon. Member is aware, we are in close consultation all the time with the Public Utilities Association, which deals with these matters.