As I have indicated on several occasions, it is the policy of His Majesty's Government during the coming months to encourage all classes of consumers and distributors once more to accumulate stocks of coal, and to supplement these reserves by stocking on Government account. As far as possible these stocks will be laid down where they are likely to be needed, so reducing the demands on transport for next winter. This policy was followed last year and greatly contributed to our success in averting any serious shortage of supplies during the past winter. It will be pressed forward this summer as the supply and transport position admits.