§ 23. Mr. SOPERasked the Secretary for Mines whether, in view of the recent low-temperature carbonisation plants erected on the Continent, using a British process, he will take steps to assist British coalowners to establish this industry in Great Britain, thus providing employment and profitably utilising small coal and producing clean smokeless fuel with the recovery of motor spirit and valuable oils?
§ Mr. ISAAC FOOTI am following the development of this process, in this country and elsewhere, with great interest, but I cannot add anything to the reply which I gave on the 18th November to a question by the hon. Member for Spennymoor (Mr. Batey).
§ Vice-Admiral TAYLORHas there been any advance at all in this matter in this country?
§ Mr. FOOTConstant advances are being made. This is primarily a matter for the business interests concerned; it is not a Government activity, except in the way of encouragement and assistance by way of research.