HC Deb 12 February 1946 vol 419 cc65-6W
Mr. Fairhurst

asked the Minister of Fuel and Power the quality and quantity of coal, in tons, exported from this country during the last three months; and the purpose for which the coal exported is being used.

Mr. Shinwell

Excluding shipments for H.M. Forces abroad, the amount of coal exported as cargo during the three months ended 31st December, 1945, was 1.350,000 tons. Apart from coal sent to bunker depots abroad the great bulk of the coal exported was of very low quality not normally used in this country. With regard to the last part of the Question, this coal is used for rehabilitation in liberated countries and in other countries for services which in general facilitate the supply of foreign products required for essential purposes in this country.