§ 75. Mr. Errollasked the Minister of Fuel and Power whether he is aware of the delays which are occurring in the 125W provision of new equipment for the coalmines which are arising through the intention of the National Coal Board to set up a centralised purchasing department; and if he will instruct the Board to postpone the formation of this department and permit colliery undertakings to place their own orders.
§ Mr. ShinwellNo, Sir. The Board are taking all possible steps to increase the flow of supplies of equipment to the mines, with the help and support of the Government. As a large organisation operating commercially, they will adopt central buying or local buying whichever is more advantageous.