HC Deb 01 August 1918 vol 109 c656W
Colonel WHELER

asked the President of the Board of Agriculture whether he is aware that the farmers in the Isle of Sheppey are having difficulty in getting any supplies of coal necessary for farming work; that the local coal agents report that colliery companies are supplying Government orders first and that therefore the farmers may have to wait a long period before their coal is delivered; and whether, in view of the fact that threshing and other agricultural operations will be delayed if coal cannot be obtained, he will take steps to see that the farmers of the Isle of Sheppey get the necessary supplies?

Sir R. WINFREY

The Department is well aware of the difficulties in obtaining sufficient supplies of coal for agricultural needs, and has made strong representations to the Coal Controller in the matter.