HC Deb 04 January 1916 vol 77 cc805-6
24. Mr. ROWLANDS

asked the President of the Board of Trade whether he can state the result of his inquiry into the shortage of supply and high price being charged for coal at Erith; and whether he intends to take any action to remedy these conditions?

Mr. PRETYMAN

I asked the London Merchants' Coal Prices Committee to look into the matter on my behalf, and I am forwarding the hon. Member a copy of their report.

Mr. ROWLANDS

Can the hon. Gentleman say what steps the Board of Trade take themselves to see that the arrangement come to with the merchants is carried out?

Mr. PRETYMAN

It depends upon circumstances. Any case such as that which the hon. Member has reported is looked into when any complaint is received. We have every confidence that the merchants are doing their best to carry out the arrangement.

Mr. ROWLANDS

Have the Board of Trade any machinery for seeing that it is carried out, apart from a Member asking a question in the House?

Mr. PRETYMAN

There is no such machinery.