§ Mr. Viantasked the Minister of Fuel and Power whether he is aware that, despite the assurance given by his Department to the effect that the coal situation in London is about normal, there is a great shortage in Willesden, merchants are without supplies and citizens who had placed orders in November, 1944, are still awaiting delivery; and what steps are being taken to expedite deliveries.
Major Lloyd GeorgeA number of merchants at Willesden were short of coal for some days at the beginning of the recent spell of severe weather and some are still in arrear with the deliveries, particularly in regard to boiler fuel, which is in reduced supply generally. All possible steps are being taken to improve the situation and military vehicles and personnel are being retained in the area for this purpose. The "cash-and-carry" centres which were opened during the period of emergency will remain open so long as they are required.