§ Mr. Cooper-Keyasked the Minister of Fuel and Power whether he is aware that during the recent cold spell there was a shortage of coal in the Hastings area and many people were without fuel for several days; and whether he will lake steps to see that adequate supplies are maintained in future for distribution in the borough.
§ Mr. GaitskellNo complaints have been received by the regional coal officer or by the local fuel overseer at Hastings. Merchants' stocks in this area are at present approximately three times those held at the same date last year, and I am advised that with current supplies these should be adequate, subject to any transport difficulties due to severe weather conditions, to maintain regular distribution. If the hon. Member will send me particulars of any specific case of difficulty with which he is familiar, I shall be glad to make inquiries.