§ 4. Mr. Nabarroasked the Minister of Fuel and Power how much house coal was burned in 12 months to 31st March, 1955; and what estimate he has made of 801 unrationed house-coal demand for 12 months commencing 1st April, 1955.
§ Mr. Joynson-Hicks30½ million tons were sold to householders. I estimate that about 32½ million tons per annum might now be required if house coal were derestricted.
§ Mr. NabarroAs the fact is now revealed that only 2 million tons of additional house coal costing approximately £12 million, all available from soft currency sources, is all that is required to deration house coal, could not my hon. Friend arrange that, and also arrange to import, say, £12 million worth less of soft fruit from Western European sources, thereby helping the Worcestershire fruit growers?
§ Mr. Joynson-HicksMy right hon. Friend is not responsible for importing soft fruit. With regard to the other aspect of the question, that is a matter which depends on the currency payments situation, and my hon. Friend should address his question to the Chancellor of the Exchequer.