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Solid fuel is the traditional fuel in this country. The organisations
dealing with the various sections of the industry (fuel producers and
distributors, appliance manufacturers and retailers) appear to operate with
little cohesion. They have only recently realised the value of intensive
canvassing in smoke control areas.
With the increase in the use of gas as a fuel and the much wider range
of solid smokeless fuels which can be used in room heaters, it is felt that
the smokeless fuel supply situation will resolve itself. Apart from the
Gas Boards, who will gradually reduce the production of solid smokeless fuel,
other manufacturers, not least the National Coal Board, are forging ahead
with plans for increased production find new types of open fire fuels.
Therefore, for those who prefer the open fire the outlook is not so
bleak and the smokeless brightly burning open fire, despite its inefficiency
and draught production, will continue to be used for years to come.
As last year, I have divided the work into three main groups
a. Measurement of pollution
b. Control of pollution - Smoke Control Areas and
c. Other activities, such as conferences and exhibitions.
(a) Measurement of pollution
The department continued measurement of pollution as part of the
National Survey by means of two daily volumetric instruments, one at
Croft Lodge Close, Snakes Lane, Woodford Green, and the other at Oakhall
Court, Wanstead.
Both instruments are fitted with eight port valves which automatically
change every twenty four hours, thus ensuring complete records over weekends
and holiday periods.
Details of average yearly figures since the instruments were installed
are given below. The figures are expressed in micrograms per cubic metre.

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