HC Deb 04 February 1929 vol 224 cc1403-4
61. Mr. BATEY

asked the Secretary for Mines whether any efforts are being made by the Government to get restarted any of the idle coal mines in the county of Durham?

The SECRETARY for MINES (Commodore Douglas King)

The measures which the Government are already taking by way of rate relief and reduction of retail freights on certain traffics will benefit the coal trade of Durham as well as of other parts of the country. No special or additional measures are contemplated for Durham alone.

Mr. BATEY

Would it not be to the interests of the Government as well of the unemployed miners if the Government were to communicate with the coalowners and ask them if they cannot restart some of the collieries?

Commodore KING

I think the hon. Member will realise that if prosperity can be achieved or, rather, loss can be avoided under the measures brought forward by the Government, it will induce coalowners to open further mines.

Mr. BATEY

Is the Minister of the opinion that the influence of the Government counts for nothing? Would not the Government be able to influence the coal-owners?

Commodore KING

I think the influence the Government are bringing to bear by way of relief is of a very solid nature.

Mr. AUSTIN HOPKINSON

Are we to understand from those replies that in this instance the Government propose to mind their own business?