HC Deb 19 March 1946 vol 420 c345W
157. Mr. Kirby

asked the Minister of Fuel and Power whether, having in mind the shortage at home, and the narrow margin of profit made on exports of coal, he will now stop all exports of coal at an early date.

Mr. Shinwell

The bulk of the coal now being exported is of inferior quality and most of it is unsuitable for use in this country. The export of a certain amount of coal is essential to facilitate the import of goods and commodities which we require.