§ 33 and 35. Mr. GRIFFITHS(for Mr. JENKINS) asked the Minister of Health (1) if he is aware of the financial obligation upon the Glyncorrwg Urban District Council, due to the Glyncorrwg Colliery Company going into liquidation and owing in rates a sum of £9,700, which has not yet been paid, and that the rate is 34s. 4d. in the £ and whether, in view of the fact that it will cripple the other industries in the parish, he will grant some financial aid to them forthwith;
(2) if he is aware that the Imperial Navigation Colliery, Port Talbot, has been closed down, where 1200 men were employed; and, in view of the fact that nearly 200 houses have been built by the Glyncorrwg Urban District Council for housing the workmen of this company and that the loss of rateable value and of rents seriously affects the council, will be consider what steps can be taken to case the burden in the area?
§ Sir K. WOODMy right hon. Friend is aware of the circumstances of the district. As regards the Glyncorrwg Colliery, his latest information is that an arrangement was contemplated with the Receiver. My right hon. Friend does not know for how long the other colliery is likely to remain closed. As the hon. Member is aware, there is no fund out of which a grant may be made to the council; but my Department have assisted the council in various ways in dealing with their difficulties, and my right hon. Friend will be glad to arrange a further conference, if desired.
§ Mr. T. WILLIAMSAre we to understand that, in these mining districts which are becoming derelict owing to the closing down of collieries, the Government are going to facilitate industrial paralysis by simply doing nothing?
§ Sir K. WOODNo, Sir; the hon. Member is not to understand that.
§ Mr. WILLIAMSWill the hon. Gentleman intimate to the House what financial or other assistance the Government are going to render to districts which are in a position of this kind?
§ Sir K. WOODNo, Sir; this is a question dealing with a specific case only.