§ 16. Mr. WATERSONasked the President of the Board of Trade whether he is aware of the serious shortage of coal at Broughton, near Kettering; whether he is aware that workmen from the neighhouring ironstone pits during this spell of wet weather have had to keep putting on wet clothes because of no coal in the homes; that these men are feeling the effects of this unhealthy practice and that unless the position is at once relieved there is likelihood of serious trouble; whether he is aware that a letter and an urgent wire have been sent to the Department concerned, both asking for immediate replies as to what is being done, and still remain unanswered; can he state what he is doing in the matter; 814 and does he intend to try and maintain the proper registered supply?
§ Mr. BRIDGEMANThere has been a shortage at Broughton, but the position is now relieved and the latest reports received show that normal conditions prevail as regards ordinary supplies. Action was at once taken upon receipt of the telegram and letter referred to. Assistance was obtained from a local industrial firm and industrial coal is being held in reserve until the emergency supplies now on order are received.
§ Mr. WATERSONWhy was there no reply sent to the letter or the urgent telegram calling attention to important facts affecting the health of the place?
§ Mr. BRIDGEMANI am sorry if that is so, but I think action in the matter is more important than a reply.
§ Mr. WATERSONIs the right hon. Gentleman aware that in this district sickness is rampant, and in many homes where sickness prevails they have not a bit of coal even in cases of bronchitis?
§ Mr. BRIDGEMANNo reply to a telegram could have prevented that.
§ Mr. WATERSONThe telegram was sent more than ten days ago.
§ Mr. BRIDGEMANMy information is that action was taken immediately the letter and telegram were received. Action cannot be taken instantaneously in a matter like this.
§ Mr. WATERSONIt is ten days ago and it is scandalous.