§ 17. Mr. Hockingasked the Minister of Housing and Local Government and Minister for Welsh Affairs what consideration is given to the availability of smokeless fuels before he confirms the necessary orders bringing into effect smokeless zones within cities.
§ Mr. CorfieldNo smoke control orders are confirmed unless my right hon. Friend is assured by his right hon. Friend the Minister of Power that adequate supplies of smokeless fuel will be available.
§ Mr. HockingWhile I appreciate the importance of this policy for health purposes, may I ask whether my hon. Friend is aware that there is a grave shortage of solid smokeless fuels in the Midland area? Will he ask his, right hon. Friend to look into this matter to see whether the hardship which is being caused at the present time, particularly to old-age pensioners, can be alleviated?
§ Mr. CorfieldI shall certainly ask my right hon. Friend the Minister of Power to look into this, but I am advised that there is no overall shortage, although there may be shortage in particular grades of premium fuels.