asked the Minister of Fuel and Power what are the calorific values of the coal imported from the United States, India and Nigeria, compared with those of the corresponding grades of British coal.

Exact comparisons are difficult to make, but the American coals which have been purchased compare well with British coals. On an air-dried basis, the calorific value of the American large coal which has been bought varies from 13,500 to 14,300 British thermal units per pound; British large coal varies from 10,700 to 15,000 British thermal units per pound. The Indian and Nigerian coals are rather lower in calorific value than the average British steam-raising coal of the corresponding size.

Does the hon. Gentleman agree that the coal from India and Nigeria is therefore costing more than is indicated by the price?

It depends very largely on the price at which the Coal Board has purchased it.