asked the Minister of Fuel and Power what total of house coal was distributed during the 12 months to 30th September, 1954; how much was sold by the National Coal Board direct to householders, excluding miners' concessionary coal, and how much by merchants and Co-operative societies to householders; and what price differential he imposes in respect of National Coal Board sales direct to consumers when merchants and Co-operative societies are by-passed.

About 30½ million tons were distributed to consumers. The tonnage retailed by different classes of suppliers is not known but 82 per cent. of consumers are registered with merchants, 15 per cent. with Co-operative Societies and 3 per cent. with the National Coal Board, which is subject to the same retail price Regulations as other merchants.

asked the Minister of Fuel and Power what steps he is taking to increase the supply of house coal in Swindon and district, where there is a shortage of stocks.

I am making inquiries and will write to the hon. Member as soon as possible.