§ 94. Sir J. Mellorasked the Minister of Fuel and Power upon what date he instructed the National Coal Board to buy coal abroad; and whether his instructions were expressed to take effect from the date upon which a Statutory Instrument should authorise such purchases.
§ Mr. P. Noel-BakerThe National Coal Board were instructed to make arrangements for the purchase of American coal on 18th November. They were not instructed to purchase the coal themselves in advance of the authorisation by the Statutory Instrument, and they have not, in fact, done so. The answer to the second part of the Question is in the negative.
§ 96. Sir J. Mellorasked the Minister of Fuel and Power whether he has instructed the National Coal Board to purchase and sell foreign coal for the account of the Board or as agents for his Department.
§ Mr. P. Noel-BakerThe purchase and sale of coal from abroad is being done by the National Coal Board for their own account.