HC Deb 21 June 1927 vol 207 cc1645-6
27. Sir R. HUTCHISON

asked the Secretary for Mines what steps have been taken by the Mining Association since March, 1926, to promote research in the methods of winning and utilising coal?

Colonel LANE FOX

Nothing could be done last year owing to the dispute and the stoppage of the mines. But I am informed that the mineowners are now consulting the technical organisations in the industry as to the subjects upon which researches could most usefully be undertaken and the method of carrying them out.

Mr. R. RICHARDSON

Has the right hon. Gentleman seen the remarks made by the chairman of the Commission, Sir Herbert Samuel, in the Press this morning?

Colonel LANE FOX

Yes, Sir, I have read the speech of Sir Herbert Samuel.

Mr. R. HUDSON

Are we to assume from that answer that nothing has been done?

Colonel LANE FOX

The hon. Member should not assume that.

Commander BELLAIRS

Is it true that £100,000 is being provided under the Trade Facilities Act for the promotion of one of these experiments?

Colonel LANE FOX

I think the hon. and gallant Member must give me notice of that question.

43. Mr. FENBY

asked the President of the Board of Education what additional steps have been taken by the Government since March, 1926, to stimulate research in the methods of winning and utilising coal; and, in particular, whether any definite progress has been attained in perfecting a commercial process of low-temperature carbonisation?

The PRESIDENT of the BOARD of EDUCATION (Lord Eustace Percy)

As regards the first part of the question, the Annual Report of the Fuel Research Board, which will, I hope, be published about the end of the month, will give the hon. Member the information he desires. As regards the second part, I would refer him to the statement in the House made by the Parliamentary Secretary of the Board on the 11th May last.

Mr. BATEY

Will the Report, when issued, give information on research into the winning of coal?

Lord E. PERCY

I think not, for the reason already stated by the Secretary for Mines, that no work on that has been done in the coal industry of an active character in which the Department could co-operate.