HC Deb 04 May 1915 vol 71 c977
93. Mr. JAMES MASON

asked the President of the Board of Trade whether he will state what were the total exports of steam coal from this country to neutral countries in Europe in the months of January, February, and March, this year?

Mr. RUNCIMAN

The total exports of steam coal to neutral countries in Europe were: in January, 1,129,000 tons; in February, 1,287,000 tons; and in March, 1,559,000 tons.

Mr. J. MASON

Have the Government taken any steps to husband the coal resources of this country?

Mr. RUNCIMAN

I cannot make any statement at the present time, but it is a question of more than industrial importance that we should not cut short the supply of coal.