§ 74. Mr. Peter Freemanasked the Minister of Fuel and Power whether he is aware of the existence of extensive slag heaps in South Wales which still contain a large proportion of combustible coal; and, in view of the increasing difficulty of meeting the demands for this commodity, the availability of many unemployed in the neighbourhood and the opportunities existing for screening and washing, he will further explore the possibilities of utilising it.
§ Mr. ShinwellI am aware that there is some usable coal in pit-heaps, although the quantities are usually not large and the National Coal Board arrange for the recovery wherever practicable of coal from tips that have vested in the Board. While I am making inquiries about disused, privately owned tips, it must be realised that in general there is no spare screening and washing capacity.