SOLID SMOKELESS FUELS

HC Deb 12 November 1951 vol 493 cc12-3W

75. Mr. Anthony Greenwood

asked the Minister of Fuel and Power when it is proposed to publish the Report of tile Working Panel on Supplies of Solid Smokeless Fuel.

Mr. Geoffrey Lloyd

It is not proposed to publish the Interim Report of the Working Party to which the hon. Member refers.

76. Mr. Anthony Greenwood

asked the Minister of Fuel and Power what plans he has for expanding the production of solid smokeless fuel; and what percentage increase in present production is anticipated during the next five years.

Mr. Geoffrey Lloyd

Plans for expanding the production of solid smokeless fuel are primarily the responsibility of the National Coal Board and the Gas Council. But, as I said in the House on Thursday last, the supply of boiler fuel is below the demand, and I shall carefully watch the progress that is being made to increase the output of solid smokeless fuels generally.

I understand that the industries concerned are not yet in a position to make reliable forecasts of the increased production of smokeless fuels expected in the next five years.