HC Deb 07 November 1949 vol 469 cc867-8
13. Sir W. Smithers

asked the Minister of Fuel and Power what complaints he has received from Scandinavian countries concerning the price and quality of British coal; what action he has taken and if he will make a statement.

Mr. Gaitskell

The few complaints from Scandinavian countries about the price or quality of British coal exports which have been brought to my notice have been referred to the National Coal Board, who are responsible for negotiating and executing their own commercial contracts.

Sir W. Smithers

Has the Minister's attention been called to a statement by Mr. Hoffman that it is wrong in principle to raise the price of exports and not to raise the prices of domestic supplies? Has the Minister not heard Quern Jupiter vult perdere, prius dementat?

Mr. Gaitskell

Without being able to interpret the hon. Member's Latin quite so rapidly, I am aware that the O.E.E.C. are investigating the question of the dual price system. The House would make a great mistake if they thought that this system only occurred in connection with British coal exports. It is far more widespread.

Mr. Kenneth Lindsay

Was it the case before the war that there was this difference between domestic and export prices of coal?

Mr. Gaitskell

I am afraid I could not say without notice.