HC Deb 26 February 1929 vol 225 cc1776-7
5. Mr. CLARRY

asked the President of the Board of Trade if he is aware that in South Wales and Monmouthshire the rail freight relief under the industrial de-rating arrangements upon coal for consumption in iron and steel works is not being passed on to these industries but is being retained by the collieries, which is not in accord with Government pronouncements on the subject; and what steps he proposes to take to ensure that the promised assistance to the iron and steel industries becomes effective?

Mr. H. WILLIAMS

The Government's views regarding the distribution of the freight reliefs between the industries concerned are stated in the reply of the Minister of Transport to the hon. Member for Cheltenham (Sir W. Preston) on 12th December, of which I am sending to my hon. Friend a copy.

Mr. SHINWELL

Was it not intended by the Government that this relief should be passed on to the consumer; and can the hon. Member make such arrangements as will fulfil the original promise of the Government?

Mr. WILLIAMS

A. full statement of the whole policy has already been given, and I am referring the hon. Member to the reply.