§ 7. Mr. JENNINGSasked the Secretary for Mines whether he is aware of the closing down of Windlestone Colliery some time ago; and if he has any information as to the possibility of the mine being reopened?
§ Mr. ISAAC FOOTThe answer to the first part of the question is in the affirmative. With regard to the second part, I understand that Windlestone Colliery 909 is no longer a separate mine. Its shaft has been used as the upcast shaft for Chilton Colliery, which is at present closed owing to lack of trade. I am unable to say when this latter colliery is likely to reopen.
§ Mr. JENNINGSHas the colliery closed down owing to the depression in the iron and steel industry?
§ Mr. JENNINGSWill the Secretary for Mines bring that answer to the notice of the President of the Board of Trade?
§ Mr. LAWSONIs the hon. Gentleman quite sure Windlestone was not an export colliery?
§ Mr. FOOTIt was concerned, I understand, with the export trade, but I suppose the depression in the iron and steel trade would have a considerable effect upon it.
§ Mr. LAWSONCan the hon. Gentleman tell us what proportion went to export and what went to the home trade?
§ Mr. T. WILLIAMSIs it not the case that our exports are down 20,000,000 tons?