Inferior Coal (Consumption)

Oral Answers to Questions — Coal – in the House of Commons at 12:00 am on 11 March 1957.

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Photo of Mr Albert Roberts Mr Albert Roberts , Normanton 12:00, 11 March 1957

asked the Paymaster-General whether he is aware that the rapid expansion of the nuclear power stations programme will lead to a decrease in the consumption of inferior coal at present used by power stations; and what proposals he has in mind for the future development of the resources of the pits which produce this type of coal.

Photo of Mr Reginald Maudling Mr Reginald Maudling , Barnet

Electricity demand is rising so fast that the coal consumption of the thermal power stations will not decrease during the next 10 years despite the recently announced acceleration of the nuclear programme. How best to use inferior coal in the longer term is a question that is already under close study both by the Department and by the industries concerned.

Photo of Mr Albert Roberts Mr Albert Roberts , Normanton

Will the right hon. Gentleman take steps to see that we get the right kind of coal utilisation in this country, as on the Continent?

Photo of Mr Reginald Maudling Mr Reginald Maudling , Barnet

I quite agree that efficient utilisation of coal, which is being pressed upon me by hon. Members on both sides of the House, is very important and urgent.