asked the Minister of Fuel and Power what changes have been made by the National Coal Board in the allocation of miners' house coal since assuming authority on 1st January, 1947.

None, Sir.

While realising that this is a traditional and well deserved privilege of the mining community, may I ask if it is the policy of the Government to maintain these allocations at existing level, whatever may be the fuel shortage in industry?

That is now a matter for the National Coal Board to deal with. My personal opinion would be that the answer is in the affirmative.

Should not these allocations now become a matter of high Government policy?

No, Sir. These allocations of coal to miners, whether free or concessionary coal, have always been a matter regulated in the industry, and will continue to be regulated in the industry.

Is it not a question which the right hon. Gentleman might consider of national interest, and the sort of thing on which he might give a general direction to the Coal Board?

It is in the national interest to see that the miners get a fair and square deal.

Will the Minister impress upon the Opposition that there is no such thing as free coal for miners; it is deducted out of their wages? Will he also inform hon. Members opposite that if they are prepared to volunteer to get coal, they will receive the same allowance as the miners?