§ Mr. Skeetasked the Secretary of State for Energy, what information he has as to the extent to which coal deteriorates if left in heaps exposed to the weather for prolonged periods and the consequential effects on price.
§ Mr. John MooreWeathering in stock piles has long been recognised as a factor which, if prolonged, can affect the value through a reduction in calorific value and, where relevant, an adverse effect upon coking properties. It is impossible to generalise on the extent of this deterioration.