HC Deb 12 February 1962 vol 653 cc901-2
17. Mr. Rankin

asked the Minister of Power whether he proposes to sanction an increase in the price of coal.

Mr. Wood

Proposals for increases in the prices of certain coals used by industry were put to the Industrial Coal Consumers' Council on 27th November, 1961, and came into effect on 1st January, 1962. The National Coal Board has put proposals for certain increases to the Domestic Coal Consumers' Council and I am now awaiting the Council's observations.

Mr. Rankin

As an increase in the price of industrial coal at the moment is bound to have a retarding effect on our exports, particularly shipbuilding, will the right hon. Gentleman consider this again? Does he realise that shipbuilders are now facing impending increases in the price of steel in addition to the price of coal, immensely higher valuations, and increases in the price of electricity? Does he think that this gives them a fair chance in the competitive world in which shipbuilding has to live today?

Mr. Wood

I cannot undertake to reconsider the price increase which came into effect on 1st January. As regards the other proposals for increases, I shall await the observations of the Domestic Coal Consumers' Council and then come to my decision.

Mr. Rankin

On the domestic side, will the right hon. Gentleman consider particularly the case of the old folk who are paying more for coal at the present time than their meagre allowance warrants? Will he consider a preferential rate for them?

Mr. Wood

That consideration will be very much in the mind both of the Council and myself when we come to consider these matters.