§ 34. Mr. SHINWELLasked the Secretary for Mines how many pits have been closed in the district of Armadale and Blaskridge, in West Lothian, during 1927 and 1928; and whether there is any prospect of any resumption of operations at these pits at an early date?
§ Commodore KINGFour pits are closed at the present time which were working at the beginning of 1927. I have no information of the owners' intentions with regard to re-opening them.
§ Mr. SHINWELLIn view of the extraordinary distress that prevails in that area, is it not possible for the hon. and gallant Gentleman to ascertain how far the recent schemes of the Scottish coalowners have contributed to this serious position, and will he not be able to use his influence in the matter?
§ Commodore KINGIt would not be in the interests of the industry if I were to 195 exert influence to open pits which the owners did not think it would be wise to open.
§ Lieut.-Commander KENWORTHYHas the hon. and gallant Gentleman no responsibility for the men at all?