§ 11. Mr. FIELDasked the President of the Board of Trade whether arrangements have been made to ensure that a fair ratio of coal shall be available in Ireland for domestic and manufacturing purposes?
§ The PARLIAMENTARY SECRETARY to the BOARD of TRADE (Mr. Wardle)Arrangements exist for Ireland to receive her proportionate share of available coal, both for domestic and industrial purposes, subject to shipping tonnage being provided. As regards domestic coal for the poorer classes, bellmen and hucksters are to receive as nearly as possible their 1917 quantities.
§ Mr. DILLONIs the hon. Gentleman aware that Ireland is not receiving anything like her due proportion of coal for domestic purposes?
§ Mr. WARDLEIt is a question of shipping facilities.
§ Mr. DILLONOh!
§ 58. Mr. BYRNEasked the President of the Board of Trade if he will take steps to secure for Dublin a fair share of coal; if he is aware that, owing to the shortage and distribution of the supplies, lighting restrictions are now in force in Dublin which are causing loss of trade to shopkeepers; and if he will take steps to prevent Dublin's share of coal going to other parts of Ireland?
§ Mr. WARDLEArrangements have recently been made with a view to ensuring equal distribution of the coal available for Ireland, special measures being taken to provide Dublin with its due proportion, subject to shipping facilities.