§ Mr. R. GWYNNEasked the President of the Board of Trade if he is aware that coal merchants in the country districts in East Sussex, more especially at Berwick, Jevington, Alfriston, and Polegate, have been unable to get any adequate supply of coal, with the result that small cus- 334W tomers have been for weeks without any coal at all, in one case the only baker in the district has had for the last two days to borrow coal for keeping his bakery going; and if he will see that immediate action is taken to remedy this state of affairs.
Sir A. STANLEYInquiries are being made into the matter, and I will let the hon. Gentleman know the result.
§ Mr. GWYNNEasked the President of the Board of Trade why it is that smaller dealers in East Sussex have been unable to obtain coal, whilst the larger firms in the towns and private owners have been able to get a certain number of trucks through; and if he will see that an increased supply is given to the district, and that it is distributed in such a way that the small consumers in the country who are dependent on country merchants shall be treated in a more equitable manner?
Sir A. STANLEYInquiries are being made into the subject raised in the hon. Gentleman's question, and it would be of much assistance if he would kindly let me have some more precise details bearing on the matter.
Mr. HARRISasked the President of the Board of Trade if he will state what arrangements are being made for the supply of coal to schools; whether the Coal Controller is prepared to give the same facilities to boarding schools and preparatory and private schools as to public elementary schools; and whether, in allocating coal, consideration will be given to the need for warmth for growing children if they are to derive benefit from their education?
Sir A. STANLEYAll schools of whatever kind are being rationed for fuel and lighting in accordance with their requirements. The public elementary schools are being maintained at a reasonable standard of comfort and efficiency, and the same arrangements will, as far as conditions permit, apply to all other schools.