HC Deb 11 July 1955 vol 543 c1555
17. Mr. Nabarro

asked the Minister of Fuel and Power how much house coal was consumed during the 12 months ended 1st July, 1955; and what estimate he has made of consumption in the ensuing 12 months in consideration of the substantial price increases authorised for house coal.

Mr. Geoffrey Lloyd

Merchants' disposals amounted to 30 million tons and no substantial change in consumption is expected.

Mr. Nabarro

Is not it a fact that, out of the average increase of 12s. 6d. per ton in the price of house coal recently announced, only 2s. 6d. per ton is in respect of increases in miners' wages, and that the remaining 10s. per ton is the price the nation is being called upon to pay for a total lack of fuel and power policy and for administrative incapacity?

Mr. Lloyd

I could not accept the figures given by my hon. Friend.