HC Deb 08 February 1971 vol 811 c20
31. Mr. Blaker

asked the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry if he is aware of the comments about the shortage of solid smokeless fuel in the Report of the Domestic Coal Consumers' Council for the year ended 31st October, 1970; and what steps he proposes to take.

Sir J. Eden

The steps which the Government have taken were described in the reply I gave to my hon. and learned Friend the Member for South Fylde (Mr. Gardner) on 22nd July, and since then restrictions on imports have been removed. As a result of these measures, taken with the relatively mild weather to date, there is now reasonable ground for hoping that shortages during the present winter will be avoided.

Mr. Blaker

Is my hon. Friend aware that the Report referred to put the blame for the shortage of solid smokeless fuels last year squarely on the shoulders of the Labour Government? Will he accept my congratulations on improving the situation?

Sir J. Eden

I happily accept any congratulations that my hon. Friend wishes to send my way. He is quite right in saying that a developing shortage on the solid smokeless fuel front has been apparent for a long time.

Mr. Arthur Lewis

Can be have published in HANSARD a detailed list of the number of tons dug by each Minister since right hon. and hon. Gentlemen opposite have been in office?

Sir J. Eden

Not without a disproportionate cost.