§ 45. Mr. GEORGE HALLasked the Prime Minister whether his attention has been drawn to the condition of the people in the mining valleys in South Wales caused by the continued depression in the coal industry; and what steps, if any, the Government propose taking to deal with this matter?
§ The PARLIAMENTARY SECRETARY to the MINISTRY of HEALTH (Sir Kingsley Wood)I have been asked to reply. The Government are, of course, aware of the continued depression in the mining valleys of South Wales, and of the great difficulties which it is bound to create, and they are keeping in close touch with the situation, but they have no evidence so far that the various existing forms of social assistance, though necessarily subjected to great strain, are inadequate to deal with it.
§ Mr. HALLHave the Ministry, of Health or the Government conducted any inquiry to ascertain whether the statement made by the right hon. Gentleman is right or not?
§ Sir K. WOODYes, Sir; we are in close touch with our officials.
§ Lieut. - Commander KENWORTHYHas the right hon. Gentleman any plan ready for the time when the strain on these local agencies becomes too great?
§ Sir W. WOODThat is another question.
§ Mr. MARDY JONESIs the right hon. Gentleman aware that both the Miners' Federation and the coalowners are complaining of this position, and is it not high time that the Government, who are the chief cause of it, took action?
§ Sir K. WOODThere are great doubts about that.
§ Mr. PALINGIs not the right hon. Gentleman aware that the position, bad as it is, is becoming acute and is getting worse day by day, arid, in view of the fact that we are constantly reading of mines being shut down and more men being thrown out of work, is he prepared to do anything in regard to the amalgation of mines, so that the miners can get work?
§ Sir K. WOODThe hon. Member is simply repeating the original question.