§ Mr. D. G. SOMERVILLEasked the Secretary for Mines if he can estimate the approximate annual reduction in the output of British coal, comparing 1932 with 1913, on account of developments that have taken place in the gas and electricity industries since the latter year?
§ Mr. E. BROWNThe quantity of coal carbonised at gas works and used for the1320W generation of electricity at steam stations belonging to public supply undertakings in 1913 and 1932 was 22,750,000 and 27,500,000 tons, respectively. At the pre-War rate of consumption per unit of production, it is estimated that an additional 20,000,000 tons of coal, approximately, would have been required in 1932. This figure would be substantially greater if the saving effected at other electricity generating plants at industrial establishments were taken into account, but information with regard to fuel consumption at these plants is not available. In addition, during 1932, gas taken by gas undertakings from coke ovens for town's use involved the consumption at the coke ovens of appreciably more than 1,000,000 tons of coking coal. It should be pointed out that the demand for gas and electricity has been stimulated by the increased efficiency of the industries and the consequent increased demand for their products. It is impossible to say how far this increased demand has resulted in a reduction in the consumption of raw coal.