§ 26. Mr. Eadieasked the Minister of Power if he will now take action, in view of the Report No. 21 of the National Board for Prices and Incomes on Coal Distribution Costs, regarding the reorganisation of coal distribution.
§ Dr. BrayMy right hon. Friend's first concern has been to draw the attention of all coal merchants to the recommendations of the Report on prices. He has however also approached the interests concerned on the longer term question of reorganisation.
§ Mr. EadieThe Minister must be aware of the fact that retail coal distribution costs increased, according to the Report, by 60 per cent. between 1958 and 1966 and that the T.G. & W., the N.U.M., and U.S.D.A.W. gave evidence in favour of public ownership? Is it not time that we stopped the public purse being exploited by private enterprise?
§ Dr. BrayAs my hon. Friend knows, the Coal Board is taking an active line, through the development of coal concentration depots, and through its own interests in coal distribution.