§ 31. Mr. Biggs-Davisonasked the Secretary of State for Energy what representations he has received from representatives of, and individuals concerned with, industries adversely affected by the increase of fuel oil prices.
§ The Under-Secretary of State for Energy (Mr. Gavin Strang)There have been few recently but earlier this year my Department received representations from and on behalf of various industries and companies including horticulture, bricks and building materials, glass products and light engineering. Oil price increases are scrutinised by the Price Commission, which I understand has also been approached by consumers affected.
§ Mr. Biggs-DavisonIs the Minister aware that I have not had a reply to my telegram on behalf of the Lea Valley Growers and the glasshouse industry generally? What helpful action will the Government take before these growers are ruined?
§ Mr. StrangThe Government recognise that this is a serious matter. It is a specific industry and it is thus the responsibility of my right hon. Friend the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food, who is now looking urgently at this matter.
§ Mr. SkeetAs there is a considerable difference between the price of fuel oil and coal, will the Minister recommend to the Chancellor of the Exchequer the removal of the tax on fuel oil?
§ Mr. StrangAs the hon. Gentleman knows, that is a matter for my right hon. Friend the Chancellor of the Exchequer. The hon. Gentleman has made an important observation on the relative cheapness of coal compared with oil at the present time.