§ Colonel Sir H. CARLILEasked the President of the Board of Trade whether he can now withdraw the Order issued by the Controller of the Coal Mines Department on 11th July last, substituting Northumberland and Durham for Yorkshire as the sources of supply of coal to be used in the city of St. Albans for the production of gas; and whether he is aware that the results of this Order are that the cost per ton delivered at St. Albans is increased by 9s. 5d., and that it involves the substitution of a coal of inferior gas-making properties?
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§ Sir AUCKLAND GEDDESI understand that Durham and Northumberland coal is not at present being supplied to St. Albans, but I must make it clear that in view of restricted output in Yorkshire and the Midlands it may be necessary in the future, as it has been in the past, to supplement supplies from these districts with Durham and Northumberland coal diverted from the export trade. I ant aware of the facts referred to in the last part of the question, but I am informed that the Northumberland and Durham when mixed with Yorkshire coal, can be used for gas-making.