HC Deb 14 July 1958 vol 591 c68W
Mr. Willey

asked the Paymaster-General what quantities of authorised fuel within the meaning of the Clean Air Act, 1956, were produced in 1957; and what is the estimated production for 1958.

Mr. Maudling

Production in 1957 was as follows:

Anthracite 4.0 million tons.
"Phurnacite" 0.7 million tons.
Hard coke 20.5 million tons.
Gas coke 12.0 million tons.
Electricity 104,500 million kWh (a).
Gas 4,100 million therms (b).
Low volatile Steam coals 11.0 million tons.
(a) Includes industrial generation.
(b) Includes coke oven gas.

Information regarding production of the proprietary low temperature carbonisation fuels is confidential and cannot be given.

Detailed estimates of production in 1958 are not available but supplies of coke, the fuel which will be the main substitute for house coal in smoke-control areas, are very good, and it has been necessary to limit production to check the rapid growth of stocks. Ample production capacity is available to satisfy a substantial extension of smokeless zones.