HC Deb 19 March 1946 vol 420 cc342-3W
156. Mr. Orbach

asked the Minister of Fuel and Power whether he is aware of the dissatisfaction of many residents of East Willesden at the non-deliveries of their coal allocation; what steps he proposes to take to remedy the present position; if he is satisfied that no coal is being delivered illicitly to non-domestic users; and whether he will make a statement on the subject to reassure the public.

Mr. Shinwell

The local fuel overseer at Willesden, in common with others, receives a considerable number of complaints, but I am satisfied that these are dealt with expeditiously, and that merchants are co-operating well in ensuring that priority deliveries are made promptly to avoid hardship. The needs of certain small non-industrial establishments are normally met from the house coal allocation and I am not aware of any improper deliveries of coal to non-domestic users. If my hon. Friend will let me have particulars of any cases he has in mind I will have immediate inquiries made into them.