HC Deb 11 April 1960 vol 621 cc869-71
26. Mr. Jeger

asked the Minister of Power whether he is aware of the unsatisfied demand for coal in Denmark; and whether he will take steps to improve the arrangements between the two countries so as to facilitate the export of coal from the United Kingdom to Denmark.

Mr. Wood

I am told by the National Coal Board that, apart from one or two grades in which there are seasonal short-tages, it has no difficulty in meeting Danish requirements. So far this year exports have been twice as high as a year ago, despite intense competition. I am anxious to help the Board and the exporters to increase their sales to Denmark in any way I can, and I will certainly consider any suggestions the hon. Member may have to make.

Mr. Jeger

Does not the right hon. Gentleman recall correspondence which I have had with him about exports of coal from the Humber? Is he aware that the latest figures which I have had show that exports of coal from the Port of Goole have shrunk in two years from 400,000 tons to 53,000 tons and exports of coal from Hull have declined from nearly 500,000 tons to 100,000 tons? Is he not aware that Polish competition, because of quick delivery of coal in Denmark, is seriously hitting our exports to that country, which is within the Seven?

Mr. Wood

I am anxious to take any step I can to increase exports, but it is not open to me to make bilateral price agreements with Poland or with any other country. The Humber exports are a matter depending very largely on buyers. Although the Humber ports suffer in foreign trade, Goole in particular is very well placed for coastwise trade.

Mr. Snow

As my hon. Friend has said, there is an unsatisfied demand in Denmark. Is the Minister satisfied that the National Coal Board is taking active salesmanship steps in those receiving areas to see that our interests in the sale of coal are put forward properly so that possible excess stocks in this country can be disposed of to those receiving countries?

Mr. Wood

I understand that the only unsatisfied demand for British coal in Denmark is in respect of East Midlands Doubles, for which there is a keen demand at home. I do not believe that there is any deficiency in the Board's efforts to export coal to Denmark. The Board has been remarkably successful, since exports this year have been twice as high as they were for the first two months of last year.