HC Deb 18 November 1957 vol 578 cc15-6
22. Mrs. Mann

asked the Paymaster-General if he has now had an opportunity to consider the success of the Bradford experiment in coal distribution; and if he will make a statement.

Mr. Maudling

The delegation of powers to the Bradford City Council in 1955 made it possible to intensify the checks on coal prices in the Bradford area and an increased number of prosecutions under the Coal Control Orders resulted. Where there are circumstances similar to those existing at Bradford in 1955 my noble Friend is prepared to grant the local authority concerned similar powers, but as these necessarily include authority to enter business premises he will do so only if exceptional need is demonstrated.

Mrs. Mann

Is not the Paymaster-General aware that that is a similar reply to the one that I got three months ago? The reply that I got last week was that the Minister was going to inquire into the Bradford system. Does he know that the Minister has inquired into the Bradford system, that he sent officials months ago to look at the Bradford system and that the officials reported that it was a much better method of inspection than the Minister's own? According to the journal of the inspectors' institute, up and down the country as much as 40s. a ton is overcharged simply by faking the grade?

Mr. Maudling

I did say what had been the result of our examination of the Bradford system. However, one must have regard to the other principle, which is that one should not extend the use of the emergency powers beyond what is really necessary.

Mrs. Mann

Owing to the ignorant nature of that reply, I shall raise this matter on the Adjournment.

Mr. Speaker

I do not think I heard all the hon. Lady's epithets, but I would advise her, if she gives notice to raise a matter on the Adjournment, that it is better to use the proper formula.

Mrs. Mann

It is very difficult, Mr. Speaker, for a back bencher to deal with Ministers who change so frequently. One seems to be learning and feeling his way by groping around, giving a different reply from that given by his predecessor.

Mr. Speaker

The hon. Lady may raise all these matters on the Adjournment of which she has given notice, but I am afraid they are not a point of order or matters in which I can intervene.

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