HC Deb 09 November 1908 vol 195 cc1713-4
MR. CARLILE

I beg to ask the Lord Advocate whether, in view of the injury to the coal trade of South Wales, Northumberland, and Scotland, should it be understood by foreign countries that false British colliery certificates are not held to be fraudulent, he will permit criminal proceedings to be taken in the case complained of by Messrs. Coats; and whether he will state in detail the grounds upon which he has hitherto refused to permit such proceedings to be taken in this case.

THE LORD ADVOCATE (Mr. THOMAS SHAW,) Hawick Burghs

The first query is a repetition of a Question already put by the hon. Member and answered. With regard to the second query, I refer the hon. Member to a Question answered by me on 29th ultimo.

MR. CARLILE

IS the right hon. Gentleman aware that the first part of the Question is not a repetition inasmuch as it deals with other areas? Will he put himself in communication with the President of the Board of Trade in view of the very serious disadvantages under which British trade is likely to be placed?

MR. THOMAS SHAW

I see no occasion for any such procedure.

MR. CARLILE

Will the right hon. Gentleman answer that part of the Question which deals with Northumberland and South Wales?

MR. THOMAS SHAW

I shall be glad to hear any information confirming the suggestions made in the Question.