§ Mr. Parkerasked the Secretary for Mines whether he is aware that there is much discontent at the recent increase in the retail price of coal in Romford; that the alleged increase in the cost of distribution does not affect the many merchants whose normal business is to sell in small quantities; and whether he will give authority to the local fuel overseer to restrict the increase in price when unjustified by increased costs?
§ Mr. LloydI have received no complaints from consumers about the recent increase in the retail price of coal in Romford. The increased costs vary between different classes of merchants, but I am satisfied that the 2d. per cwt. authorized for the 2 cwt. per week ration is a fair average. I hope it will be possible to remove it very shortly.