§ 2.46 p.m.
§ LORD FOLEYMy Lords, I beg leave to ask the first Question which stands in my name on the Order Paper.
§ [The Question was as follows:
§ To ask Her Majesty's Government what drastic improvements are contemplated in the transport and distribution of coal to households in order to avoid the recurrence of hardships imposed upon a great number of people, including the sick and aged, who were without delivery of coal for over a week after the recent short cold spell.]
6§ THE MINISTER OF STATE, HOME OFFICE (LORD STONHAM)My Lords, it is true that during periods of severe weather there can be delays in the distribution of house coal. Where these occur merchants try to give priority to the aged and infirm. Delays happen because demand rises sharply, whilst rail transport and road distribution are hampered by snow and ice. This winter British Railways had some difficulty in maintaining a supply of wagons after the guards' and footplate men's dispute had disrupted their arrangements to establish reserves of wagons at strategic points. To maintain a general excess of wagons against all contingencies would add considerably to the railway deficit. To reduce the pressure on distribution facilities during the winter, consumers are encouraged to stock during the summer months. Last summer the National Coal Board increased the discount to 25s. 0d. a ton on purchases.