HC Deb 18 May 1950 vol 475 c190W
Mr. Peter Smithers

asked the Minister of Fuel and Power whether he is aware of the difficulty in obtaining anthracite nuts in the Winchester area; and whether he will take steps to improve the position

Mr. P. Noel-Baker

For some time now there has not been sufficient anthracite to meet the demand, which has been steadily increasing since the war. The shortage is general, and not confined to any particular area, and, because of the necessity to increase anthracite exports, I am afraid I cannot hold out hope of any early substantial improvement in domestic supplies. Coke, however, is plentiful in most districts and is a suitable alternative for nearly all cooking and heating stoves and boilers.