§ 68. Mr. HAMMERSLEYasked the Secretary for Mines if he can estimate the effect which Part 1 of the Mining Industry Act, 1926, has had in bringing about amalgamations in the coal trade?
§ The SECRETARY for MINES (Commodore Douglas King)I cannot say more than is said on the first page of the Report on this subject presented to Parliament on 5th November.
§ Mr. LAWSONWill the hon. and gallant Gentleman say whether it is not true that there is no amalgamation taking place in Durham, and that therefore the Act has no effect whatever, and in view of that difficulty is he prepared to take steps?
§ Commodore KINGI do not read this question on the Paper as dealing with Durham. The Report deals with the whole country.
§ Mr. T. WILLIAMSIs the hon. and gallant Gentleman aware that large amalgamations have taken place with little or no effect?
§ Commodore KINGNo, I am not aware of that fact.