asked the Minister of Fuel and Power whether he is aware of the feeling of injustice and grievance existent amongst the consuming public arising as a result of the low quality of coal often supplied to them; and, if the distribution of this low-grade coal is necessary in the national interest, will he arrange that it be sold at a lower price?
As regards the first part of the Question, I would refer the hon. Member to the reply which I gave on 16th March to my hon. Friend the Member for Stockport (Sir A. Gridley). As regards prices, these are fixed by the Statutory Schemes set up under the Coal Mines Act, 1930, which include provision for price adjustments for variations in quality. In addition, I am at present considering machinery to ensure an equitable settlement of difficulties which cannot be settled in this way.