§ Mr. Granvilleasked the Minister of Fuel and Power if he will take steps to ensure that householders in rural areas receive adequate supplies of coke and anthracite, in view of the fact that many of them who are without gas or electricity and rely on this type of fuel for cooking and heating, have been unable to obtain supplies since early in January.
§ Mr. P. Noel-BakerThe demand for coke and anthracite has greatly increased during the past few months, and although supplies have also increased, it has been impossible to meet the full requirements of all consumers during the winter. I am not, however, aware of any instances of householders who depend wholly on coke or anthracite for cooking and heating being left entirely without supplies. Local machinery already exists for giving priority where necessary to this type of consumer, and, if there is difficulty over supplies, the householder should get into touch with his local fuel overseer.