HC Deb 30 November 1920 vol 135 cc1124-5
88. Mr. PENNEFATHER

asked the Secretary for Mines whether his attention has been drawn to the effect upon food supplies, raw material, exports, and employment in Liverpool which would ensue from the new Order relating to the supply of bunker coal proposed to come into force to-morrow; and can he make any statement in regard to the matter?

The SECRETARY for MINES (Mr. Bridgeman)

The Order in question is new only in the sense that it is embodied in the new Directions issued under the Mining Industry Act. But, in fact, it is merely a re-statement of the existing practice, which has now been in force for nearly 18 months. I met yesterday a deputation from the Liverpool Steamship Owners' Association regarding this matter, and am considering very carefully the representations put before me.