HC Deb 08 December 1931 vol 260 c1665
15. Mr. TINKER

asked the Secretary for Mines the total cost to date of the committee appointed to deal with the coal mines amalgamation; and will he give separate figures for the chairman and each member of the committee?

Mr. ISAAC FOOT

The total expenditure incurred, up to the 30th November, in connection with the Coal Mines Reorganisation Commission was approximately £20,000. The amount paid to the chairman, including expenses actually incurred in connection with travelling and subsistence allowances on the Treasury scale, was £6,375. Three of the other commissioners received in respect of remuneration and expenses £858, £764 and £705 respectively. The fifth commissioner is serving in an honorary capacity.

Mr. TINKER

Can the hon. Gentleman tell me for what period that is? Is it 12 months?

Mr. FOOT

Yes. I think the actual work commenced in December of last year, and the figures that I have given the hon. Member are to the 30th November last.

Mr. MAXTON

Does the hon. Gentleman not think they are a little bit overpaid for the output?

Mr. FOOT

On that, there may be many different opinions.