HC Deb 15 April 1948 vol 449 c1153
26. Mr. Collins

asked the Minister of Fuel and Power whether in view of the considerable increase in stocks, he will now restore to the previous maximum of 56 lb. the quantity of coke which can be obtained off the ration.

Mr. Gaitskell

No, Sir. We have to develop the export of coke, and in any case I could not agree that what my hon. Friend proposes is the best way of making available to the home market any additional supplies of coke which we can afford for this purpose.

Mr. Collins

Is my right hon. Friend aware that a person who wants a bigger ration of coke can make any number of journeys—usually a small boy does it—and could he not make the sensible concession asked for in the question?

Mr. Gaitskell

My hon. Friend's proposal would seem to lead to the conclusion that we should abolish the 28 lb. limit altogether.