2. Mr. Philips Priceasked the Paymaster-General what progress has been made in producing a processed smokeless fuel from coal dust and small coal other than anthracite; and to what extent such a fuel will be available for industry and the domestic consumer in the near future.
§ Mr. MaudlingBesides having increased supplies of "Warmco" for sale, the National Coal Board hopes to have two new processed smokeless fuels ready for testing on the domestic market in the winter of 1960–61. As small coal can be burned virtually without smoke in suitably equipped industrial plants, there is not the same need to produce a smokeless processed fuel for this purpose.
Mr. Philips PriceIn view of the continued stocking of coal, will the Minister press on the Board the need for a solution of this question at the earliest possible date.
§ Mr. MaudlingI do not think any pressure on the Board is called for, as it is doing a very good job here.
§ Mr. J. GriffithsI am sure the right hon. Gentleman realises that we have the best anthracite in the world and that anthracite is smokeless. Would he not agree that, as part of the campaign to get more smokeless fuel, every encouragement should be given to increase the production of anthracite?
§ Mr. MaudlingThe Question referred to coal other than anthracite.