asked the Minister of Power what was the total volume of coal shipments to power stations in 1953 and 1963, respectively; and what tonnage went to them by other means in each year.

About 10 million tons of coal was shipped to power stations in England and Wales in each of the years 1953 and 1963. About 25 million tons was carried by other means in 1953 and about 51 million tons in 1963.

I welcome that reply, but will my hon. Friend continue to bear in mind the importance of this trade to coastal shipping, and the importance of coastal shipping to an island like our own?

Certainly, but this is primarily a matter for the commercial judgment of the Generating Board.