HC Deb 30 June 1919 vol 117 cc579-80
1. Mr. LAMBERT

asked the President of the Board of Trade what will be the estimated deficit falling on the public exchequer for the year commencing 1st July next in coal sold at to-day's prices, after taking into account the concessions made on the recommendations of the Sankey Commission; and how much per ton will it be necessary to increase the price of coal at the pit's mouth to prevent loss falling on the taxpayer?

The PARLIAMENTARY SECRETARY to the BOARD of TRADE (Mr. Bridgeman)

I would refer the hon. Member to the reply which my right hon. Friend gave to a question asked by the hon. Member for the Camlachie Division (Mr.Mackinder) on the 4th June, in the course of which he indicated that the estimated deficit for the year commencing the 16th July next is £46,600,000, and that an increase of about 4s. 6d. per ton in the price of coal would be necessary to meet the deficiency.

Mr. LAMBERT

Is it a fact that since the War the price of coal has gone up 10s. 6d. already, and is this 4s. 6d. in addition to that figure?

Mr. BRIDGEMAN

I will try and find; out, and let the right hon. Gentleman. know.