§ 28. Mr. Patrick Maitlandasked the Paymaster-General to what experimental stations for the study of methods of low temperature carbonisation of coal he is now giving assistance in Scotland; what are the processes under study; and whether, in view of the availability of suitable coal locally, he will assist the establishment of such an experimental station in the region of Douglas, Lanarkshire.
§ Mr. MaudlingNone, Sir. Research into a variety of carbonisation processes is being actively pursued at research stations of the National Coal Board and the gas industry, and by some private firms. Subject to such recommendations as may be made by the Committee recently appointed by my noble Friend under the Chairmanship of Mr. A. H. Wilson, he is satisfied that adequate facilities for research already exist.
§ Mr. MaitlandIs my right hon. Friend aware that there are considerable reserves of suitable coal for the Holford process of low temperature carbonisation at Coalburn and at Douglas Water, near Douglas, in my constituency? Would he be prepared to look at a project which has been worked out for putting that coal to good and lasting use in the making of smokeless fuel, gas and oil?
§ Mr. MaudlingMy information is that there are no coals of suitable quality 855 available in the region of Douglas, though there are suitable coals available elsewhere in Lanarkshire. I shall be happy to look at any project which my hon. Friend cares to put forward.