§ 36. Miss Irene Wardasked the Minister of Fuel and Power whether he can forecast a reduction in the price of coal; and at what stage in the industry's development he expects it to be able to absorb wage increases without increasing the cost to the consumer.
§ Mr. Geoffrey LloydNo, Sir, not at present, and I am sorry that I do not feel able to make the forecast which my hon. Friend asks for in the second part of her Question.
§ Miss WardWhile appreciating and welcoming the improvement in the conditions of the lower paid pitmen through the new wage award—long overdue—at the same time may I ask my right hon. Friend if he will bear in mind that the general community, old age pensioners and workers in other industries, are entitled to expect some benefit from the vast sums of money that have been spent in capital equipment of the mines? Will he kindly look into that aspect of the matter and give the House a full statement at a fairly early date?
§ Mr. Philip Noel-BakerIs it not a fact that the price of coal compares very favourably with the price of other commodities?