26. Mr. Vaneasked the Minister of Fuel and Power if he is aware that the National Coal Board has been making purchases of firewood logs in the Lancashire area at prices above the controlled prices; and what steps he is taking to enforce his order.
§ Mr. GaitskellYes, Sir. The acquisition of supplies of wood fuel at more than controlled prices is not an offence under this Order, but the general question of the enforcement of the Order is under consideration.
Mr. VaneDoes not the right hon. Gentleman think that it is an extremely bad example, whether the National Coal Board can get round the Order or not, to pay about double the controlled price for firewood logs?
§ Mr. GaitskellI would not accept the figure given by the hon. Member, but the National Coal Board have expressed their regret to me. One of the difficulties about the Order is that those who buy the fuel do not know whether the regulations are being broken or not.