47. Dr. VERNON DAVIESasked the Prime Minister if he has received a communication from the president of the Federation of British Industries requesting that sufficient time may be given to industry to consider the provisions of the Coal Mines Bill; and if, in view of the far reaching effect of the Measure upon industry in all its branches, he will postpone the Second Reading till after the Parliamentary Recess?
§ The PRIME MINISTERThe answer to the first part of the question is in the affirmative. The general principles of the Bill have been known for some time and the Bill itself has been available since Thursday morning last. The Government believes that the best way to meet the desires of the Federation is to pursue the programme of business which has been announced.
Dr. DAVIESIs the right hon. Gentleman aware that many competent in dustrialists in this country feel that this Bill will raise the price of coal to the home consumer and will have a detrimental effect on both industry and employment; and that there is a much better chance of getting alterations made between the First and Second Reading than after the Second Reading?
§ The PRIME MINISTERIt is because I totally disagree with the hon. Member that the programme of business has been announced.
Dr. DAVIESMay we take it that the Prime Minister is of opinion that the present Bill will not raise the price of coal to the home consumer?