HC Deb 17 January 1968 vol 756 c626W
Mr. Leadbitter

asked the Minister of Power what steps he has taken to ensure that any price reduction offered to any coal consumer will not be offset by an increase to another consumer.

Mr. Freeson:

The National Coal Board have a statutory duty to make supplies of coal available at such prices as may seem to them best calculated to further the public interest in all respects, including the avoidance of any undue or unreasonable preference or advantage.

It has been the practice of the Board to consult the Government about any intended changes in the relationship between prices charged to the main consumer groups.