asked the Minister of Fuel and Power if he is aware that in some cases national hospitals pay less for coal purchased from coal merchants than when buying the same coal direct from the National Coal Board; how this comes about; and what action he proposes to take.

No, I have received no information which supports the suggestion made in this Question by my hon. Friend. But if my hon. Friend will let me have particulars of any case or cases which he may have in mind. I will gladly inquire.