HC Deb 21 June 1954 vol 529 c16
33. Lieut.-Colonel Lipton

asked the Minister of Fuel and Power whether, in cases where household coal was ordered before 12th June but not delivered by that date, the purchaser is entitled, under his regulations, to the discount of 10s. per ton.

Mr. Geoffrey Lloyd

No, but there are arrangements operated by the trade in the South of England under which, subject to certain conditions, merchants are prepared to meet orders placed between 3rd May and 31st August at the price ruling at the date of order.

Lieut.-Colonel Lipton

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that that answer will be received with some satisfaction? Is he further aware that a large number of merchants are telling people who order coal that they will not get the benefit of this discount, which was applicable until 12th June? Will he notify the coal merchants that this discount is payable if the coal was ordered in the time specified and that it will not be lost because the coal was not delivered in time?

Mr. Lloyd

No, Sir, because, as I pointed out, this is an arrangement which was brought about by the trade.