55. Mr. T. THOMSONasked the Prime Minister whether he is aware of the impracticable form of the new coal export regulations recently issued to collieries by the Coal Controller whereby, for example, the West Carterthorne Colliery Company, County Durham, was advised that the total amount of coal they would be permitted to export this month would be three tons and that this tonnage must be shipped to foreign countries in the following exact proportions: 45 per cent. to France, 18 per cent. to Italy, 8 per cent. to Norway, 8 per cent. to Sweden, 7 per cent. to Denmark, 2 per cent. to Spain, and 12 per cent. to other foreign countries; can this method of allocation be reconsidered; and will he consent to receive a deputation from colliery companies and coal exporters thereon?
§ Mr. BONAR LAWThe total amount of coal to be exported from different exporting areas has been fixed in consultation and by agreement with representatives of those areas.
Individual allocations to collieries as to the quantity to be exported by them are made by the local Coal and Coke Supplies Committee, who will no doubt consider any anomalies which may have arisen.
The attention of the local Committee has been drawn to the case mentioned by the hon. Member.
90. Captain TUDOR-REESasked the President of the Board of Trade whether he is aware that, in consequence of the recent order restricting the export of coal, many collieries are working short time, 1261 coal exchanges are closing for three days a week, and a number of ships are lying idle for want of coal cargoes; and whether, in view of the dislocation of the coal trade, he will consider the desirability of revoking the order?
§ Mr. BRIDGEMANThe Government policy concerning the export of coal was adopted after careful consideration of all the circumstances. I cannot accept the hon. and gallant Member's suggestion that there has been, in consequence of the new restrictions, any serious dislocation of the coal trade, and I am not prepared to recommend any alteration in the present policy.
Captain TUDOR-REESIs the hon. Gentleman aware that during the last two days a colliery in South Wales has actually been closed down in consequence of this restriction?
§ Mr. BRIDGEMANNo, Sir, I am not aware of that.
§ Major MORGANIf the hon. Gentleman will make inquiries in Swansea, he will find that that is so.
§ Mr. BRIDGEMANIf the hon. Member will give me the information, and will also say whether it is due especially to these circumstances, I shall be very much obliged.