§ 30. Mr. WRIGHTasked the Secretary for Mines the number of companies that have amalgamated under The Mining Industry Act, 1926: the districts where 186 they are situated; and the amount saved to the companies in respect of stamp duties?
§ Colonel LANE FOXThe 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.
§ Colonel LANE FOXI think the hon. Member had better give me notice of that question.
§ Lieut.-Commander KENWORTHYMay 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 FOXNo, Sir, I have not included that; but it certainly does come under the Act.