§ 18. Mr. Whitlockasked the Minister of Power whether it is now the Government's intention to implement the proposals of the Robson Committee for improving efficiency in coal distribution.
§ The Minister of Power (Mr. Richard Wood)The Committee's only recommendation in this regard related to the establishment of large, fully mechanised coal depots. On this, I would refer the hon. Member to my reply on 23rd November, 1959, to the hon. Member for Wigan (Mr. Fitch).
§ Mr. WhitlockBut will the right hon. Gentleman agree that between the pithead and the fireplace there is a multiplicity of factors, agents, middlemen and retailers—
§ Mr. NabarroAnd the co-ops.
§ Mr. Whitlock—and has he considered the suggestion of the Robson Committee of an investigation into the possibilities of rationalising this trade?
§ Mr. WoodI answered the hon. Gentleman's hon. Friend earlier to say that my predecessor recognised that he was obliged to hold consultations about this matter; but there are a number of difficulties, as the hon. Gentleman will be aware, in face of the setting up of these mechanised coal depots. I am perfectly willing to help in those discussions if those discussions reach a point at which I usefully could help.