§ SIR LEES KNOWLES (Salford, W.)I beg to ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department what is the total area in South Wales of the smokeless semi-bituminous coalfield; what is the estimated quantity in that area of un-worked smokeless coal, such as is suitable for naval as distinguished from ordinary steam purposes; and what was the total amount of such coal exported to foreign countries from Newport, Swansea and Cardiff in 1903.
§ * THE SECRETARY OF STATE FOR THE HOME DEPARTMENT (Mr. AKERS DOUGLAS,) Kent, St. Augustine'sI am afraid the information in my possession does not enable me to answer the Question adequately. As 582 regards the first two paragraphs, I can only say that the whole matter of coal supplies in South Wales will come under the consideration of the Royal Commission which is now sitting. As regards the last paragraph, I am informed by the Board of Customs that the total amount of steam coal exported from Newport, Swansea, and Cardiff in 1903 was 18,427,574 tons, but they are unable to distinguish in this amount between the different classes of coal indicated by the hon. Baronet.
§ SIR LEES KNOWLESIs it the fact that the agents of the Admiralty at the present time are unable to obtain at Cardiff what are known as "spot" cargoes?
§ * MR. AKERS DOUGLASNo. Sir.
§ MR. COGHILL (Stoke-upon-Trent)Will the Government take steps to acquire these stocks of coal for this country?
§ * MR. AKERS DOUGLASI must ask for notice of that.
§ SIR LEES KNOWLESMay I ask whether, in view of the urgency of the question, the right hon. Gentleman will ask the Commission to make an interim Report?
§ * MR. AKERS-DOUGLASI do not think I can do that.
§ SIR LEES KNOWLESI beg to give notice that on an early date I will move that it is desirable that the Government should make early provision to ensure an adequate supply of smokeless steam coal for naval purposes in future years.