HC Deb 24 March 1949 vol 463 c539
21. Sir W. Smithers

asked the Minister of Fuel and Power how many extra tons of coal, on an annual basis, will be required to implement his recently announced relaxation of restrictions on lighting.

Mr. Gaitskell

Approximately 500,000 tons, mainly of inferior quality, for electricity, and approximately 150,000 tons for gas.

Sir W. Smithers

In view of the disastrous effects of the policy of this Government, is it not more important to export coal and to get food in return than to have a few hours' more lighting?

Mr. Gaitskell

I am glad to hear the hon. Member supporting the policy for which I was so long attacked by his hon. Friends. The fact is that this inferior fuel is no longer very easy to sell in export markets and I am assured there will be no danger to the export programme.