§ Mr. Saltasked the Minister of Fuel and Power in view of the fact that the present 649W overall efficiency of coal utilisation in this country is estimated to be only 30 per cent. and that well over half the heat content is wasted by domestic and industrial users, what steps are being taken to ensure a steady annual improvement; and what is the present Government contribution to all forms of coal utilisation research.
Major Lloyd GeorgeThe Fuel Efficiency Committee and the Domestic Fuel Planning Committee, acting under the auspices of my Ministry, have, for the past three years, done all in their power, despite war-time handicaps, to promote the more efficient use of fuel. Almost every factory using more than 100 tons of coal a year has now been visited by experts who have advised how their consumption can be reduced. The importance of using their existing appliances as economically as possible has been kept constantly before householders. I am glad to say that the public response has been very encouraging, and a steady annual improvement is taking place. As regards the second part of the Question, the present annual Government contribution devoted wholly to fuel research is £208,000, in addition to which certain other research bodies receive grants from the Government, part of which is devoted to fuel problems.