§ Mr. Granvilleasked the Minister of Fuel and Power if he is aware that the present serious shortage of coke in many parts of East Suffolk is causing inconvenience to residents, especially in view of the fact that many have to use coke for domestic purposes and in order to obtain supplies of hot water; and what steps he intends to take to improve the position.
§ Mr. P. Noel-BakerAs I have said in reply to previous Questions, the present demand for coke is running at an extremely high level. In the first 11 weeks of the present summer period, merchants in East Suffolk sold nearly 1,000 tons more coke than in the corresponding period a year ago. I am aware of the difficulties caused by the rapid increase in demand and consideration is being given to ways and means of improving distribution to ensure, so far as possible, that supplies are available where most needed.