§ 8. Mr. Eadieasked the Minister of Power how far the National Coal Board has extended its interest in retail distribution of coal between the years 1957 to 1966.
§ Dr. BrayFor most of this period there was virtually no change in the amount of the National Coal Board's business in retail distribution. The Board is now seeking to increase its participation in the trade to achieve a higher degree of rationalisation.
§ Mr. EadieI thank my hon. Friend for his reply, but is he not aware that our miners resent the fact that the cost of coal distribution is higher than the cost of the actual production of the coal? In the interests of the consumers and of the miners, will he not consider accelerating the Report of the Prices and Incomes Board on the cost of the retail distribution of coal?
§ Dr. BrayThe N.C.B.'s rationalisation plan is going ahead. Its bulk supply depots are coming into operation in increasing numbers. As my hon. Friend says, the Prices and Incomes Board will before long present a report on coal distribution costs.
§ Sir Stephen McAddenIs not the Parliamentary Secretary aware that in the most recent inquiry into the cost of the retail distribution of coal it was proved that the retail cost of distribution by cooperative societies was no lower than anyone else's?
§ Dr. BrayCo-operative societies are quite major distributors who are playing their part in operating some of the bulk supply depots.