HC Deb 20 November 1919 vol 121 cc1175-6W
MR. A. SHORT

asked the President of the Board of Trade whether he is aware the Wednesbury Town Council have increased the price of coal 1s. 6d. per ton; under what Regulation this is permitted; and whether such increase is in addition to the 6s. advance?

Sir A. GEDDES

I am aware that an increase of 1s. 6d. was made in the retail price of coal in Wednesbury early in October. This increase was made under the powers provided by Clause 60 of the Household Fuel and Lighting Order, 1919, and was due to advances in the local cost of labour and cartage. The increase has no connection with the 6s. advance in pit head prices.

Mr. ADAMSON

asked the President of the Board of Trade whether he is now in a position to state if any reduction is to be made in the price of coal; and, if so, the amount?

Sir A. GEDDES

The matter is under consideration, and it is hoped that it will be possible to make an announcement at an early date.