§ 64. Lieut.-Commander KENWORTHYasked the Secretary for Mines whether he is aware of the still-continuing difficulties of merchants and contractors in obtaining coal for sale abroad and also 339 coal for delivery when sold, owing to the operations of the so-called Five Counties Marketing Scheme; that this restriction of supply does not apply to one or two qualities or grades of coals but extends over a large range of the usual export qualities and grades; that this restriction of output is hampering the revival of the export coal trade and bunkering trade; and if he intends to take any steps in the matter?
§ Commodore KINGI have seen several references in the Press to a shortage of coal on the Humber for export and bunkers, but only one case, a shortage of bunker coal, has been brought to my notice. Coal was supplied in this case when I had called the attention of the Central Collieries Commercial Association to the matter.
§ Lieut.-Commander KENWORTHYIs the hon. and gallant Member aware that I am not relying on any report in the Press, but on statements made to me by substantial merchants in the coal business in Hull? Is the hon. and gallant Member aware that many of them are unable to carry out their contracts and deliver coal already sold owing to this artificial restriction?
§ Commodore KINGNo, Sir. I am not aware of that fact.
§ Lieut. - Commander KENWORTHYWill the hon. and gallant Member look into this matter and send someone to the Humber ports to investigate it?
§ Commodore KINGI am in constant touch with the Humber ports.