Question to the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs:

To ask the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs, what assessment he has made of the potential effect of a ban on the use of house coal on heating bills for households not on the gas grid; and if he will make a statement.

Defra is assessing the impact on households of a ban on the sale of house coal. We are seeking further information through our consultation which closes on 12 October; this includes views on how Government should support those in fuel poverty with this transition from the most polluting fuels. The cost per household will vary considerably depending upon a range of factors, including what fuel they switch to and whether they are burning on a modern stove or an open fire.