§ Mr. Parkerasked the Minister of Fuel and Power whether he is aware of the acute coal shortage now existing in Dagenham; and whether he will take steps to improve the position.
Major Lloyd GeorgeThere is no shortage of coal in Dagenham. Merchants' stocks are good, and there are substantial reserves of Government coal in addition. There is also a reserve stock of wood fuel held by the local authority which is available for distribution. At most of the depôts serving the Dagenham district, merchants are three or four weeks in arrears with the execution of orders. Deliveries are, however, being made on a priority basis, preference being given to those consumers who are without supplies. Complaints of delay in delivery are being satisfactorily dealt with by the Local Fuel Overseer.