HC Deb 18 March 1912 vol 35 cc1517-8
Viscount WOLMER

asked the Prime Minister whether he proposes to do anything to relieve the distress in the country caused by the coal strike?

The PRIME MINISTER

The Government, as I stated last week, are carefully watching the situation, and the local authorities throughout the country are also fully alive to it.

Viscount WOLMER

Has not the right hon. Gentleman in view any proceedings to assist those families who at the present time are on the verge of starvation?

The PRIME MINISTER

I say that we are carefully watching the situation.

Major ANSTRUTHER-GRAY

asked the Prime Minister whether he will consider the desirability of introducing immediate measures, where necessary, to cope with the increasing distress amongst the poor and unemployed throughout the country?

The PRIME MINISTER

I must refer the hon. and gallant Member to the answer I have just given to the Noble Lord the Member for Newton.

Major ANSTRUTHER-GRAY

Will the right hon. Gentleman wait till the people are starving or will he take immediate action?

The PRIME MINISTER

The Government will do what they consider necessary in the interests of the community.