§ 13. Mr. Doddsasked the Minister of Fuel and Power if he is aware of the concern aroused by the rapidly-diminishing stocks of household coal in many districts; and what action is contemplated by his Department to ensure that hardship is avoided in the event of protracted unfavourable weather conditions.
§ Mr. Geoffrey LloydHouse coal stocks always fall at this time of year and, of course, fall faster when the weather is colder. This applies particularly to large house coal. There are, however, ample supplies of smaller coals, coke and other fuels. These should be used to eke out supplies of large coal.
§ Mr. DoddsIs the right hon. Gentleman aware that there is a growing feeling that he is being too complacent about the situation and that a warning should be given about the need to use coal sparingly, for the benefit of those who have still a little coal in their cellars? Will he warn them that they may have to wait four, five or six weeks for fuel?
§ Mr. LloydThere is a Question later on on the Order Paper, the reply to which shows that merchants have great difficulty in getting coal out quickly enough even though they have the coal, which usually happens at this time of the year. Householders can assist to allay the general fear about the coal situation by taking coke, small coal or nutty slack with their household coal.
§ Brigadier MedlicottIs the Minister aware that in the Eastern Counties, even before the recent floods there was some anxiety about the level of stocks? In addition to meeting the needs of the emergency, will he make sure that stocks of coal for the Eastern Counties are kept up to the rather high level required by the special climatic conditions which exist there?
§ Mr. LloydThe Eastern Counties have always had some grievance in this matter. 14 We shall certainly bear this point in mind. In addition, we are sending special extra supplies of coal to all the flooded areas for the general need, and especially to help people to dry out their houses.