HC Deb 20 April 1944 vol 399 cc384-5W
Mr. Mainwaring

asked the Minister of Fuel and Power if he has considered the representation on behalf of thousands of workers employed in important industries in South Wales regarding the coal supply, which at present is no more than a half cwt. per week and that, in the absence of any alternative fuel for cooking, etc., the majority of these people are suffering great hardship; and what steps he is taking to remedy this grievance.

Mr. T. Smith

My right hon. and gallant Friend has received no such representations. Owing to the recent fall in production of coal it has been necessary to make various re-adjustments of coal supplies, and in consequence the supplies to the house coal market in South Wales have had to be curtailed. I hope it may be possible to restore normal supplies in that area by the end of April. In the meanwhile, arrangements have been made to ensure equitable distribution of the limited supplies available and to meet individual cases of undue hardship.