§ 34. Sir W. MITCHELL-THOMSONasked the Prime Minister whether he is aware that the Coal Commission is now insisting on payment for coal for export to British Dominions, Colonies and Possessions of the same export price as for coal for export to foreign countries; and whether this policy will be reconsidered on an early date?
§ Mr. BRIDGEMANI have been asked to reply. Coal for export is now sold at the market price, irrespective of destination. The differential minimum prices are not, in practice, operative, as the market price is well above the highest minimum. No change of policy in this matter is contemplated.
§ Sir W. MITCHELL-THOMSONIs the hon. Gentleman aware that there is serious risk of a considerable portion of the coal trade of the Colonics passing into 215 the hands of America, and will that be taken into consideration if I can give evidence to show it?
§ Mr. BRIDGEMANI shall be very glad of any information which the hon. Gentleman can give me.