Nigerian Coal (Hansard, 19 March 1951)

§ 28. Mr. Keeling
asked the Minister of Fuel and Power why only 10,000 tons of Nigerian coal is being bought.

§ Mr. P. Noel-Baker
The National Coal Board have bought all the Nigerian coal that is available for shipment to this country during the winter months.

§ Mr. Keeling
Is that due to the fact that the Nigerian railways are in a state of chaos?

§ Mr. Noel-Baker
It is due to the fact that they cannot deliver more to us than I have said. Other Nigerian coal is going to the Gold Coast and Tripolitania or other British Government Departments.

§ Mr. Maclay
Is the right hon. Gentleman satisfied that this coal can be carried by sea without risk of spontaneous combustion?

§ Mr. Noel-Baker
I believe that in the quantities we are taking, it can.