HC Deb 05 February 1948 vol 446 cc1884-5
17. Mr. Keeling

asked the Minister of Fuel and Power whether the Interdepartmental Committee on domestic heating has yet recommended that the output of improved solid-fuel-burning appliances makes it possible to act on the recommendation of the Fuel and Power Advisory Council that the manufacture and sale of new appliances falling below approved standards should be prohibited as soon as possible; and how soon the prohibition will be issued.

Mr. Gaitskell

No, Sir. The committee have reported that the output of improved solid-fuel burning appliances is not yet sufficient to justify this step.

Mr. Keeling

Would the Minister agree that there is no more fruitful way of saving coal than to instal these improved domestic grates? Will he say whether he accepts the recommendation of the Advisory Council and will put it into force as soon as possible?

Mr. Gaitskell

Yes, we have accepted that recommendation and I entirely agree that it is most desirable, but we cannot take such a drastic step as prohibiting the production of these older appliances until we are satisfied that it is practicable.