HC Deb 26 November 1951 vol 494 cc860-1
30. Mr. Edward Evans

asked the Minister of Fuel and Power whether, having regard to the severity of the weather on the north Suffolk coast during the winter months, he will bring that area into the northern allocation for fuel for the winter period.

Mr. Geoffrey Lloyd

I regret that the acute shortage of house coal will not permit an increase in supplies in any area.

Mr. Evans

Is the Minister not aware that the Lowestoft Division is the most easterly division of the country, the prevailing winds are easterly, coming right off the North Sea, and the zoning is most unfair in respect of this area which is subjected to these bitter winds, and that people in the north and particularly in the north-west, which has a milder temperature, have the benefit of the northern allocation? Will he have another look at this problem?

Mr. Lloyd

I do not think the prevailing winds have changed since I succeeded the right hon. Gentleman.

Brigadier R. Medlicott

Is the Minister aware that there is an even stronger case for the Norfolk coast, and that the present line must be unfair, because it assumes that the climate of north-eastern Norfolk is the same as Torquay and Bournemouth?

Mr. Lloyd

I appreciate the difficulties, but unfortunately there is at present not enough coal.