§ 112. Mr. Osborneasked the Minister of Fuel and Power what is the price per ton of the coal to be imported into the United Kingdom; and at what average price is similar quality coal being exported from this country.
§ 116. Mr. Gammansasked the Minister of Fuel and Power how much dollar exchange has been sanctioned for purchases from the United States of America; and what is the average price being paid for coal already ordered.
§ Mr. P. Noel-BakerThe total amount of coal to be purchased abroad is still under consideration. The dollar exchange required will depend upon the cost not only of the coal, but also of the freights; the freight rates will vary with the tonnage and nationality of the ships employed. It would be contrary both to the public interest and to commercial practice to disclose prices, while negotiations for the coal and for the shipping required are still in progress.