§ 69. Mr. BAKERasked the Secretary for Mines whether he is aware that the Bristol coalowners, who were parties to the settlement which has just been reached, undertook that if the Bristol collieries had to close owing to economic difficulties nothing would be done which would deprive the men of their rights to unemployment benefit; whether he is aware that notices have been posted on the Bristol pit-heads stating that the pits can only continue to be worked on the basis of the rates paid in April and May; and whether he will consider what steps can be taken to safeguard the men concerned?
§ Mr. SHINWELLSo far as my information goes, the facts are as stated in the question. I understand that the matter is to be discussed between the Mining Association and the Miners' Federation next Thursday. Meantime, I am asking the Ministry of Labour to look into the question.