§ 13. Mr. Awberyasked the Minister of Power if he is aware that there was a shortage of coal and smokeless fuel in Bristol last winter; and if he will take steps to prevent a repetition of this during the coming months by providing an adequate supply before the winter sets in.
§ Mr. PeytonDelays in delivery in Bristol last winter were mainly due to the exceptional weather rather than shortage of fuel. Consumers who have space available can help by stocking up now.
§ Mr. AwberyMay I ask the hon. Gentleman whether he is aware that last year a large; number of the inhabitants of Bristol suffered very considerably during the severe winter weather? May I take it that; his Answer is an assurance that there will be no repetition of a shortage of coal this winter, particularly in the smokeless areas?
§ Mr. PeytonSo far as can be foreseen. All I can tell the hon. Gentleman is that supplies of coal now are better than they were last year, and supplies of Gloco are adequate. The shortage last year was caused by the difficulty of distribution and not by any shortage of stocks.
§ Mr. LoughlinWill the hon. Gentleman get away from this idea of adequate stocks; for this winter? Is he aware that in October of this year my supplier could not supply me with the right grade of anthracite and had to supply an inferior grade? Is it not time that the Minister really got down to the job of ensuring not only that there are adequate supplies, but that the right type of fuel is available?
§ Mr. PeytonAll I can say is that I should be falling very far short of my duty if I got away from the idea of adequate stocks for this winter.
§ Mr. AwberyThere is still a shortage of coal in Bristol, even at this time of the year.