Mr. David Adams:

asked the Secretary for Mines whether, in view of his decision to suspend the rationing of gas and electricity, and that of coal, to 100 per cent. of previous deliveries but with greater supplies where required, he has decided to close the rationing section of his Department and thus save a substantial sum to the Exchequer?

As I informed the House on 9th November, I hope, if the position remains as at present, that: it will shortly be possible to close many of the local fuel offices and retain only a skeleton staff.

Mr. Adams:

Does the hon. Gentleman anticipate that this happy event will take place at an early date?