asked the Minister of Supply whether he will inquire the reason for the scheduled prices for home-grown pitwood in the North of England being increased by 300 per cent., as the increased price goes to the landowner, and as such increase must enter into the cost of producing coal?

I am afraid that I cannot add to what I stated in my reply to the hon. Member on 1st November, namely, that I am not aware that in any instance the price of home-grown pitwood has been increased to the extent stated. The maximum prices for pit prop trees which the landowners are permitted to charge under the appropriate Order (the Control of Growing Trees (No. 2) Order, 1939) are 7d.per cubic foot for larch under seven inches quarter girth, and 7dper cubic foot for other conifers under eight inches quarter girth.

If I give the right hon. Gentleman an instance of this actual increase, will he take steps to see that it does not mean a considerable increase in the price of coal?

I am always willing to investigate any case the hon. Member brings to my notice.

If it can be shown that there has been this increase, will the Minister take the necessary steps to see that the maximum price is not charged?

After due review of the whole of the facts the maximum price has been fixed and I am satisfied that it is nothing like an increase of 300 per cent. I would like to investigate the specific instance given by the hon. Member, but I cannot promise an early review of the maximum price, which has been fixed after due regard to all the then known facts.

With regard to the maximum price, can the Minister say what the percentage increase is over pre-war prices?

I am satisfied that the pre-war prices in many cases were higher.