§ 75. Sir W. Wakefieldasked the Minister of Fuel and Power if he is aware that, in response to the Government's appeal to industry, many firms made considerable savings of coal during the Summer of 1947 on the understanding 237W that stocks of coal built up by careful saving would not prejudice future coal allocations; that this pledge is not being fulfilled now by his Department and in consequence the resentment is being felt at this breach of faith; and will he implement the pledge given.
§ Mr. RobensThere has been no breach of faith. The understanding to which the hon. Member refers relates to the allocation for the coal year 1947–48 and was fully implemented. The allocation arrangements for the current Summer were fully discussed with representatives of both sides of industry before they were introduced and were accepted by them as also giving due recognition, compatible with the needs of coal exports, to savings in coal consumption made during the winter. My right hon. Friend gave details of the arrangements as long ago as 26th February and I am sending the hon. Member a copy of the announcement.