§ Dr. Littleasked the Secretary for Mines whether he is aware of the dissatisfaction in Northern Ireland with Welsh coal being supplied owing to its slow kindling and heating properties; and whether he will arrange that at least 50 per cent. of the coal supplied to Northern Ireland should be English and Scotch coal?
§ Mr. GrenfellAs I have explained to the hon. Member, who has approached me personally in the matter, a very substantial proportion of the coal now being supplied to Northern Ireland is English or Scottish. I recognise that changes in sources of supply, such as have been necessary to meet the rising tide of consumption both here and in Northern Ireland, cause temporary inconvenience1912W and difficulty; similar inconveniences and difficulties are being experienced in many parts of England. I have explained fully to the representatives of the Northern Ireland Government and trade that I cannot give any undertakings regarding the sources from which their demands will be met; this must depend upon changing circumstances. But I feel sure that the people of Northern Ireland, recognising the necessity of these changes in the national interest, will readily co-operate with us in supporting the minor inconveniences which they entail.