HC Deb 05 February 1951 vol 483 c1335
35. Mr. Russell

asked the Minister of Fuel and Power why there is a shortage of coke in the London area.

Mr. P. Noel-Baker

During the second half of 1950, the North Thames and South-Eastern Gas Boards sold nearly a quarter of a million tons more coke than in the corresponding period of 1949. The North Thames Gas Board is now supplying the merchants with 1,000 tons a day more than they were a year ago. But since the purchase of coke was freed from restrictions the demand has greatly increased.

Mr. Alport

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that there are large stocks of coke at various gasworks at the present time which cannot be moved because there is not enough coal which locomotives can use to haul wagons?