§ Answer to Address [12th June] reported, as follows:—
§ I have received your Address, praying that a Commission may issue to investigate the probable quantity of Coal contained in the Coal Fields of the United Kingdom, and to report on the quantity of such Coal which may be reasonably expected to be available for use:
§ Whether it is probable that Coal exists at workable depths under the Permian, New Red Sandstone, and other superincumbent strata:
§ To inquire as to the quantity of Coal at present consumed in the various branches of manufacture, for steam navigation, and for domestic purposes, as well as the quantity exported, and how far and to what extent such consumption and export may be expected to increase:
§ And whether there is reason to believe that Coal is wasted either by bad working, or by carelessness, or neglect of proper appliances for its economical consumption:—
§ And, I have given directions that a Commission shall issue for the purposes which you have requested.