HC Deb 09 April 1951 vol 486 cc642-3
21. Mrs. Eirene White

asked the Minister of Fuel and Power whether he has considered offering to the public at a low price modern fuel-conserving grates and stoves, so as to economise in the use of solid fuel for domestic purposes.

Mr. P. Noel-Baker

As my hon. Friend no doubt recalls, there is no Purchase Tax on appliances which burn solid fuel. I am considering various other measures designed to encourage the public to replace old fashioned grates and stoves by modern and more efficient types.

Mrs. White

Has my right hon. Friend calculated that we might save 10 million tons of coal a year if open fires could be replaced by modern grates or stoves? Would he consider introducing a Noel-Baker type of stove?

Mr. Noel-Baker

About one million improved appliances have been sold since the issuing of the Simon Report.

Mr. Nabarro

Is not the first step in this development to secure the co-operation of the local authorities to install stoves instead of open hearths?

Mr. Noel-Baker

Yes, Sir, and everything is done to ensure that they put in improved appliances. They are given special prices when they buy these appliances in bulk.

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