HC Deb 06 February 1945 vol 407 cc1911-2W
Mr. Denville

asked the Minister of Fuel and Power if he can give particulars why the facilities for delivering coal in and around Newcastle-on-Tyne during the present winter are so bad; seeing that, although there are coalmines in Newcastle itself, this state of affairs continues.

Major Lloyd George

I am not aware that there has been any serious deterioration in the position with regard to distributive facilities in Newcastle-on-Tyne and district since last winter. As has been general throughout the country, merchants' operations there have been hampered by the prolonged severe weather, but reasonable deliveries have been maintained to domestic consumers.

Major T. Cox

asked the Minister of Fuel and Power if in view of the fact that homes in Dukinfield have recently been without their weekly supply of coal, due chiefly to shortage of transport, he will try to arrange for local military transport to be available to alleviate the present difficulties.

Major Lloyd George

The shortage of merchants' transport in Dukinfield is temporary, and arises from the fact that three vehicles are undergoing repair. Replacement vehicles have already been obtained from the Corporation Cleansing Department. At the same time measures have been taken to ensure that any consumer who satisfies the Local Fuel Overseer that he is without supplies, or required additional coal because of sickness in his household, receives a delivery within 24 hours.

Captain Poole

asked the Minister of Fuel and Power if he is aware that there is no coal dump on the Kingstanding Estate of the City of Birmingham; that no deliveries of coal have been made there for three months and that large numbers of residents have to carry their small lots a distance of three miles; and will he take steps to have a dump established on the estate immediately.

Major Lloyd George

From preliminary inquiries which I have made it appears that regular deliveries are being maintained by merchants supplying this area, but I am obtaining a more detailed report and will communicate further with my hon. and gallant Friend.