HC Deb 20 November 1947 vol 444 cc1324-5
31. Brigadier Mackeson

asked the Minister of Fuel and Power what changes of policy have taken place in connection with the issue of permits to convert domestic and industrial heating plants from solid to liquid fuel.

Mr. Gaitskell

My predecessor explained on the 12th June that the Government had decided against any further general extension of the coal-oil conversion scheme for the time being. The schemes already authorised will considerably increase our fuel oil requirements over the next few years and there is little prospect in present circumstances of being able to authorise more schemes.

Brigadier Mackeson

Could the Minister say if he anticipates having sufficient liquid fuel to give the same ration next year as he did last year to existing plants and to plants that will come into use?

Mr. Gaitskell

Yes, Sir, I anticipate that there will be sufficient fuel in the country for those schemes which have been authorised.