§ 48. Mr. LAMBERTasked the Prime Minister if he is aware that at present the development of the coal industry is arrested; whether an arrested development now will render a famine in coal certain in a few years' time; whether our export trade is dependent on coal production, without which export trade food products from abroad, which are necessary to prevent our people from starva- 572 tion, cannot and will not be imported; and whether he will announce the permanent policy of the Government so that confidence may return and the development of our coal resources be resumed?
§ 58. Mr. RAFFANasked the Prime Minister when the Government will introduce the proposals for the future organisation of the coal industry, in addition to the limitation of profits, which he announced on 18th August would be submitted with the least possible delay?
§ The PRIME MINISTERThe announcement of the Government policy with regard to the coal mining industry will be made at the earliest possible moment. My right hon. Friend may rest assured that in framing the legislative proposals which will be required to carry out the Government policy the greatest care will be taken not to prejudice the development of this vital industry.
§ Mr. LAMBERTIs the right hon. Gentleman aware that at the present time the development of the coal industry is arrested? Will he, therefore, make a statement or cause one to be made at the earliest possible moment?
§ The PRIME MINISTERI realise the importance of the consideration which has been urged by my right hon. Friend. It was brought to my notice by a deputation of coal-owners the other day.