HC Deb 21 February 1955 vol 537 cc111-2W
96. Lieut-Colonel Bromley-Davenport

asked the Minister of Fuel and Power whether he is aware that there is no anthracite in Manchester; that none has been delivered in that area from South Wales for something like six weeks; and why South Wales anthracite is sent to other areas and not to Manchester.

Mr. Joynson-Hicks

Supplies of anthracite are not enough to meet demand and new pits are therefore being sunk. Distribution of what is available is made as fairly as possible throughout the country, but I will inquire about recent deliveries to Manchester and write to my hon. and gallant Friend.

Brigadier Rayner

asked the Minister of Fuel and Power if he will now make available in Devon greater supplies of anthracite and Phurnacite.

Mr. Joynson-Hicks

Though new anthracite pits are being sunk and existing Phurnacite plant extended, supplies of neither of these fuels can at present match demand, but January deliveries to Devon were no smaller this year than last.