On This Day, 21 November 1918

Birmingham Daily Post

Thursday 21 November 1918

COAL SUPPLIES FOR BIRMINGHAM

AN EMERGENCY ALLOCATION

The Birmingham Fuel Overseer (Mr. H. H. Humphries) states in reference to the local coal supply that a large allocation of emergency coal has now been promised, and the Coal Control Department has arranged with the collieries commence its delivery immediately. Though this will to some extent relieve the present shortage, it is still necessary that there should be the greatest economy in the use of fuel if very great difficulties are not to be experienced later on. The coal supplies during the past week have been lessened by reason of the holidays in connection with the armistice rejoicings, and also because of influenza amongst the miners and transport workers.

In reference to requisition forms, Mr. Humphries points out that it is the utmost important that consumers who have not already done so should immediately send in their completed forms as, within few days, they will unable to obtain coal unless their coal merchant holds a certificate to supply them. This cannot be sent to the coal merchant until the consumers’ requisition forms have been completed and approved.

It should be noted that when the requisition form is filled up in an approved manner certificates are sent the coal merchant, Gas Department, and Electric Supply Department, but no notification is sent to the consumer. Where the information is not approved then a notification is sent the consumer so that he may amend the requisition.