§ 18. Mr. Palmerasked the Minister of Fuel and Power if he will take steps to ensure a fairer and more abundant distribution of grade II smokeless fuels for general household use.
§ The Parliamentary Secretary to the Ministry of Fuel and Power (Mr. David Renton)The essential problem is to increase the production of these fuels. A 1757 doubling of the output of Phurnacite by next January is planned and, as a longer-term development, two large pits are being sunk in the anthracite area.
§ Mr. PalmerIs the right hon. Gentleman aware that even allowing for the present level of production, there is much unfairness in distribution creating a sense of grievance among the suppliers of these fuels, particularly in the south of England, among whom the Cooperative movement represents some of the worst-hit sufferers? Is it not possible, even with the present limit of production, to take some action?
§ Mr. RentonThe National Coal Board does its best to ensure a fair distribution of the available supplies among merchants throughout the country. The Board will, I am sure, be grateful for any suggestions as to the way in which its scheme can be improved.