§ 14. Mr. Fenner Brockwayasked the Minister of Fuel and Power if he will take action to increase the supply of coal to the borough of Slough, where merchants are three to four weeks behind with their deliveries.
§ Mr. Geoffrey LloydCoal merchants and their staffs are doing their best to deliver the coal as quickly as possible, but at this time of year many of them fall some weeks behind with their deliveries. I am making inquiries about the position in the borough of Slough and will write to the hon. Member.
§ Mr. BrockwayIs the right hon. Gentleman aware that many people, including old people who are confined to their houses, are now without coal or are having to use coal dust? Will he therefore take the most energetic action to try to put this matter right?
§ Mr. LloydI shall certainly look into that matter. If in difficulties these people can apply for help from their local fuel overseer. I have a preliminary report from Slough, where some coal merchants have as many as half their van drivers ill with influenza which has, naturally, caused delay.
§ Commander DonaldsonIs the Minister aware that there is a serious shortage of coal in South-East Scotland and will he do what is in his power to improve the situation in that area?
§ Mr. LloydYes, Sir. Unfortunately, the production of coal in Scotland has been particularly poor this year and we are having to send coal from England to make up the deficiency.