§ 12. Mr. Gardnerasked the Minister of Power if he is satisfied with the current level of stocks of smokeless solid fuel; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. FreesonOverall stocks of solid smokeless fuel together with expected production should be adequate to meet demand during the remainder of the winter.
§ Mr. GardnerCan my hon. Friend say what effect the decline in the production of gas coke has had on stocks, and can he say what increase is being made in the development of solid smokeless fuels, using the softer kind of coal?
§ Mr. FreesonThe latter part of the question is a matter for detailed consideration by the National Coal Board itself. There is a problem here with the reduction in the supply of gas coke, but already alternative fuels are on the market to replace them, and the demand in future will depend on the economics of producing new types of fuel.