asked the Minister of Fuel and Power whether local fuel overseers have any authority over premises occupied by Government Departments.

No, Sir. The Coal Distribution Order, 1943, under which local fuel overseers are appointed, does not bind the Crown, and premises in Government occupation are not, therefore, subject to their authority. Comprehensive arrangements have, however, been made to secure economy in fuel consumption by Government Departments. As my right hon. Friend the Minister of Works has recently stated, there was a saving in the main Government offices of 15.75 per cent. in the first quarter of 1947, compared with the corresponding period in 1946.

In view of that answer, can the right hon. Gentleman say what action should be taken where a case is known of a house held on requisition by a Government Department which has acquired a stock of 15 tons of coal?

It does not necessarily follow that a stock of 15 tons of coal is a particularly bad thing, but, if the hon. Member will let me have particulars, I shall be glad to look into it.