§ Mr. GRUNDYasked the President of the Board of Trade whether he is aware that although coal is supposed to be controlled in price from the pit to the consumer, this exists more in theory than in practice, and that excess charges are extensively being made over and above that allowed under the Coal Prices (Limitations) Act and the Wholesale Coal Prices Order; and whether steps will be taken to prevent such excess charges?
§ Sir A. GEDDESThe number of cases in which complaints of irregular charges either by collieries or merchants are found to be justified are relatively few, having regard to the large tonnage of coal sold for consumption in the United Kingdom. If the hon. Member will be so good as to furnish full particulars of any cases which may come to his notice in which there isprima facie evidence of overcharge, immediate investigation will be made.