asked the Minister of Shipping how many vessels are in South Wales ports awaiting coal cargoes?

This morning the number of ships awaiting bunkers or coal cargoes is reported to be 14.

Can the right hon. Gentleman give any reason why 14 vessels should be awaiting cargoes; and is it not the case that in the last two months many more vessels have been awaiting cargoes?

I think the hon. Gentleman will agree that this figure represents a considerable improvement over the situation which prevailed a few weeks ago. I understand that the slight delays which are still occurring are due to the shortage of coal.

Can we have an assurance that this very important matter is well in hand?

Yes, Sir.