§ 56. Mr. SHIELDasked the Secretary for Mines if he is aware that, at a colliery on Tyneside, over 48 per cent. of the total gross profits are absorbed in payment of salaries to persons not actually engaged in working operations and that the last balance sheet disclosed a loss; and whether he will deal with the matter by directing the notice of the reorganisation commissioners to the need for absorbing this colliery in other concerns?
§ Mr. SHINWELLThe answer to the first part of the question is in the negative. If my hon. Friend will give me the name of the colliery and any other particulars, I will consider whether the matter is one on which action can suitably be taken on the lines indicated in the last part of his question.
§ Captain PEAKEWill the hon. Gentleman assure the House that he will not interfere with the work of the reorganisation commissioners in any way?
§ Mr. SHINWELLThis question has nothing whatever to do with the work of the reorganisation commissioners. It is merely asking for information.