HC Deb 06 February 1968 vol 758 cc60-1W
Mr. Eadie

asked the Minister of Power what progress has been made on the concentration of coal depots since the report of the National Board for Prices and Incomes; and if he will list the areas affected.

Mr. Marsh

I am advised by the National Coal Board that since the Report of the National Board for Prices and Incomes the number of coal concentration points for rail-borne fuel has increased overall by 55.

The breakdown is as follows:

N.C.B. Sales Regions Concentrations
Scottish +19
Northern +8
Yorkshire +9
North Western +11
North Midlands +4
Midlands -8
South Wales and West of England -1
London and Southern +13

In the Midlands an increased number of merchants is drawing supplies direct from collieries and in South Wales three small depots have been replaced by two larger ones.