HC Deb 31 January 1963 vol 670 cc204-5W
8. Mr. Charles A. Howell

asked the Minister of Power what types or brands of smokeless fuel are now being processed; and what increase of production there has been in each type or brand each year since the passing of the Clean Air Act, 1956.

Mr. Peyton

The main varieties of solid smokeless fuel and the quantities supplied to the domestic market each year since 1956 are as follows:

Federation, indicates the approximate order of efficiency of various types.

Mr. Kelley

asked the Minister of Power what progress has been made in research to produce a smokeless fuel suitable for use in open fire-grates.

Mr. Peyton

A considerable range of smokeless solid fuels suitable for open grates is already available, including gas cokes produced to British Standard Specification. The progress of research by the National Coal Board into new processes for smokeless fuels is described in paragraphs 91–93 of the Board's last Annual Report, and I gave further information in reply to the hon. Member for Meriden (Mr. Matthews) on 23rd January.

Mr. Dalyell

asked the Minister of Power what progress has been made in the National Coal Board's Birch Coppice smokeless fuel process.

Mr. Peyton

I would refer the hon. Member to the Reply I gave to the hon. Member for Meriden (Mr. Matthews) on 23rd January.