§ MR. FELLI beg to ask the Prime Minister whether his attention has been called to the reported new finds of seams of good coal in Kent; and whether, having regard to the national importance of establishing a coalfield in the south-Cast of England, and to the unsatisfactory progress that has been made in proving and working the coal since its discovery there some years ago, he will cause the Board of Trade to inquire into the 603 matter and get reports from the Government geologists and inspectors of mines which might be laid before this House.
§ SIR H. CAMPBELL-BANNERMANI do not see what steps the Government can take in this matter. I am informed that measures for proving the coal are being energetically carried on; and I cannot see that it is the duty of any Government Department to call for special reports.