HC Deb 22 March 1927 vol 204 cc185-6
30. Mr. WRIGHT

asked the Secretary for Mines the number of companies that have amalgamated under The Mining Industry Act, 1926: the districts where they are situated; and the amount saved to the companies in respect of stamp duties?

Colonel LANE FOX

The only scheme of amalgamation which has yet been confirmed by the Court under the Mining Industry Act, 1926, is that of four collieries in South Yorkshire. I am informed that the stamp duties which would have been payable but for the Act would have amounted to £76,000 or more, a charge which it was stated by the promoters would have been prohibitive.

Mr. RILEY

May I ask whether other applications have been before the Department?

Colonel LANE FOX

I think the hon. Member had better give me notice of that question.

Lieut.-Commander KENWORTHY

May I ask whether the recent amalgamation of anthracite mines comes under the Act and whether the right hon. and gallant Gentleman has included that?

Colonel LANE FOX

No, Sir, I have not included that; but it certainly does come under the Act.