§ Major V. Adamsasked the Minister of Fuel and Power whether he will state generally what are the prospects of an adequate supply of coal during the coming winter.
Major Lloyd GeorgeThe coming winter is likely to be the most difficult of the war so far as domestic supplies of coal 77W are concerned. Merchants' stocks and stocks in consumers' cellars will be lower at the beginning of this winter than they were this time last year. Moreover, output of coal has fallen and coke is not available to the same extent as last year in substitution for coal. At the same time, the operational demands of our Armed Forces for good quality coals are heavy and likely to increase. It is imperative, therefore, that all consumers of solid fuel should exercise the most rigorous economy and that everybody who can build up his stock during the next two months should do so within the limits allowed. Consumers must be prepared to accept whatever fuel is available. While, therefore, the general supply position will be very difficult, I can assure my hon. Friend that every effort will be made to ensure equitable distribution and in particular to safeguard the position of the small consumer who has no storage space.