§ 20. Mr. Nabarroasked the Minister of Fuel and Power what special arrangements he proposes to make to encourage summer stocking of coal and coke by householders and industrial concerns; whether price incentives for summer stocking will be available; and whether he will make a statement.
§ Mr. Geoffrey LloydThe summer prices scheme is primarily a trade matter arranged by the National Coal Board and the merchants. It is for them to make the announcement and I understand that they will do so towards the end of this month.
§ Mr. NabarroIn view of the inevitable loss in output caused by the miners' second week's holiday, which we all support, would my right hon. Friend make it clear that there may be a delicate position with regard to the supply next winter of fuel for industry and domestic consumers, and that summer stocking will help very greatly to abate this difficulty?
§ Mr. Noel-BakerHave not the Government given their fullest support in the last two years to the summer prices scheme, and will the Minister do everything in his power to ensure that this year householders stock more coal than they did last year?
§ Mr. LloydYes, summer stocking is important, but, as the right hon. Gentleman knows, the details of the scheme are for the Coal Board and the merchants.