Coal (Pithead Price)

HC Deb 01 February 1966 vol 723 cc871-2

21. Mr. Varley

asked the Minister of Power what has been the percentage increase in the pithead price of coal during the period November, 1964, to November, 1965.

Mr. Frederick Lee

None, Sir.

Mr. Varley

Is this not evidence that the Coal Board is doing everything possible to hold down prices? However, whilst accepting that point, is not my right hon. Friend aware that the retail price of coal over the various stages of the period in my Question has gone up by 12 per cent.? Will he ask the Board to look into the possibility of extending its retail sales activity with the same success?

Mr. Lee

There has not been any general price increase for coal at the pithead for more than five years—[HON. MEMBERS: "Hear, hear!"]—and, indeed, no selective price increase since May, 1962; whilst in September, 1964, coking coal prices were reduced by an average of 2s. 6d. a ton. I will bear in mind the point my hon. Friend makes about retail sales.