§ 50. Sir A. MARKHAMasked the President of the Board of Trade whether he is aware that further increased dislocation 374 has resulted in the coal trade owing to his delay in making any definite statement on the question of whether the Government intends to fix maxima prices in the coal trade, and that the London public are not buying coal, in the hope that prices will be regulated; whether he has any information that, unless stocks of coal are laid down through the summer months in London, a coal famine will result if hard weather or fog prevails next winter; whether the stocks at the depots are small owing to the merchants not knowing the intention of the Government; and whether he will accept the recommendation made to him by a number of private Members of this House and forthwith fix maxima prices?
Mr. RUNCIMANReturns furnished by London coal merchants show that at the end of May the amount of coal at London depots was greater than a year ago. Particulars for the end of June are not yet available. With reference to the remainder of the question, I hope to be in a position to make a statement to the House very shortly. Matters of great importance to the coal trade and consumers have had to be dealt with by the Government during the past few weeks, which have unavoidably delayed the steps in contemplation for dealing with prices.
§ Mr. CROOKSWill there be any attempt whatever made to make these people disgorge their unholy profits?
§ Mr. CROOKSThis is a matter for the right hon. Gentleman. The Board of Trade are responsible for the whole mix-up.