HC Deb 20 February 1945 vol 408 cc636-7W
Mr. Cluse

asked the Minister of Fuel and Power whether he is aware of the low quality of the coal now being distributed by coal merchants in many areas; that the price per cwt. is much above prewar prices; whether the extra profit goes into the pocket of the coal distributor or the coal producer; and whether he is aware of the hardship inflicted on wage-earners who are compelled to buy low quality coal at extravagant prices.

Major Lloyd George

Whilst I am aware of some decline, under war-time conditions in the quality of coal, I have no evidence of any recent further deterioration. During the recent difficult weeks Government dumps have been opened to meet deficiencies in normal supplies and very few complaints have been made concerning the quality of this coal. The price of coal sold from dumps is fixed according to the appropriate Retail Coal Prices Schedule for coal of a similar grade and the merchants receive no more than their normal profit margin. As my hon. Friend, is aware, the price of coal, as of other commodities, has increased substantially in war-time, owing to increased costs.

Mr. Martin

asked the Minister of Fuel and Power whether he is aware that some coal and coke merchants in the London area now require longer notice of an order for their commodities than the amount permitted on each delivery can possibly last, thereby causing hardship to a number of consumers; and what he proposes to do to ease this situation.

Major Lloyd George

I am aware that delays in delivery in the London Region were substantial, but with the help of military vehicles and labour the arrears are rapidly being overtaken. If a consumer is suffering hardship because of lack of fuel he should apply to the Local Fuel Overseer for assistance in obtaining delivery.

Mr. E. Granville

asked the Minister of Fuel and Power if he will consider increasing the amount allowed for domestic consumption for villages which have not the alternative facilities for cooking, such as gas and electric heaters, that are provided in towns, but are solely dependent upon coal for cooking purposes.

Major Lloyd George

I would refer my hon. Friend to the answers which I gave to Questions by my hon. Friend the Member for Rhondda East (Mr. Mainwaring) on 23rd November, 1943, and on 10th October last, of which I am sending him copies.