§ 30. Mr. Nabarroasked the Minister of Fuel and Power how much coal has been imported since the end of the last coal winter to the latest convenient date; how much of these imports have been house-coal; how much more imported house-coal he expects to arrive before 31st December, 1954; and whether he is satisfied that all these imports when 19 added to indigenous supplies will be sufficient to avert a shortage during the forthcoming winter.
§ Mr. Joynson-HicksA quarter of a million tons, all of which, apart from screening losses, represents a direct or indirect addition to house coal supplies. I cannot say how much more will arrive this year, but the object of the steps being taken by my right hon. Friend is to safeguard supplies for next winter.
§ Mr. NabarroDoes that reply mean that the winter prospects for house coal are now a good deal brighter than when the rather guarded statement was made six weeks ago?
§ Mr. Joynson-HicksI think that it is a matter of degree.