§ 32. Mr. A. Robertsasked the Paymaster-General the nature of the direction he has given to the National Coal Board to increase the production of large coal to avoid the overstocking of small coal.
§ The Parliamentary Secretary to the Ministry of Power (Sir Ian Horobin)My noble Friend has given no such direction.
§ Mr. RobertsIs the Minister aware of the growing apprehension in the country caused by the stocking of small coal? Does he not realise the amount of money it is costing to stockpile that coal and the fear of unemployment arising in the coalfields? Will he bear in mind that, if this direction were given with sufficient force, progress could be made to the benefit of the country and the industry as a whole?
§ Sir I. HorobinA number of questions are raised in that supplementary question. I do not think it would be desirable to give a general direction under the Act on this matter. I can reassure the hon. Member, however, that the question of small coal is under constant attention, both by the National Coal Board and by the Ministry of Power.
§ Mr. NealWill the hon. Gentleman give directions to the Central Electricity Authority to burn smaller coal instead of oil and so relieve his embarrassment about the stocking of small coal?
§ Sir I. HorobinThat raises a number of other questions. As they are not related closely to this Question, perhaps the hon. Member, if he thinks it worth while, will put a further Question on the matter.