§ 64. Mr. Dribergasked the Minister of Fuel and Power if he has considered the representations forwarded to him by the hon. Member for Maldon with regard to the inadequacy and irregularity of coal deliveries at Silver End and other rural 1702 parts of Essex, where many householders have neither gas nor electricity for cooking; and if he will endeavour to arrange for more adequate and regular deliveries.
§ The Parliamentary Secretary to the Ministry of Fuel and Power (Mr. Gaitskell)Witham Depot received 93 per cent. of its allocation over the coal year, May, 1946, to April, 1947, and merchants' total disposals to domestic consumers from this depot averaged 33.8 cwt. per premises. I am, however, making further inquiries regarding my hon. Friend's representations, and will communicate with him in due course.
§ Mr. DribergWould my hon. Friend bear in mind that many of these housewives have not even got paraffin cookers as an alternative? They have relied entirely on coal.
§ Mr. GaitskellYes, Sir.
§ Mr. Manningham-BullerWould the hon. Gentleman also bear in mind that this part of Essex is not the only part where there is neither gas nor electricity for cooking, and where coal deliveries are irregular?
§ Mr. GaitskellIf the hon. and learned Gentleman will let me have particulars, I will look into the matter.