§ 43. Mr. Hockingasked the Minister of Power what quantities of smokeless fuel, other than gas coke, were produced in Great Britain in 1960, and in 1961; how much has been produced in the first six months of 1962; and whether he expects the production in 1962 to exceed that in 1961.
§ The Parliamentary Secretary to the Ministry of Power (Mr. John Peyton)Production of the specially reactive fuels Coalite, Rexco, Cleanglow, Phimax and Warmco, totalled 1.3 million tons in 1960, 1.5 million tons in 1961 and 0.8 million tons in the first six months of 1962. Production in 1962 as a whole is likely to be about 1.6 million tons.
§ Mr. HockingWill my hon. Friend bear these figures in mind when he has discussions with the Minister of Works with regard to setting up further smokeless zones in cities? Is he aware that many of the merchants in the Coventry area have only gas coke available, and that this is a most unsatisfactory fuel?
§ Mr. PeytonI think that the last part of my hon. Friend's supplementary question arises more under the next Question in his name on the Order Paper. As to the setting up of new smokeless zones, a most important point which is always considered is supplies of smokeless fuel in the area.