HC Deb 14 July 1931 vol 255 cc215-6
8. Mr. COCKS

asked the Secretary for Mines when he will be in a position to lay before Parliament a report upon the operation of the Coal Mines Act, 1930?

Mr. SHINWELL

Under Section 7 of the Coal Mines Act, 1930, a report on the operation of all schemes in force under the Act has to be laid before Parliament during each year. An advance report on the working of schemes during the first quarter of this year was however laid before Parliament on Friday last and printed copies will be available tomorrow evening.

Mr. CHARLES WILLIAMS

Does that show how many pits the Government have succeeded in getting closed under the Act?

9. Mr. COCKS

asked the Secretary for Mines how many amalgamation or absorption schemes have been submitted to the Board of Trade since the passing of the Coal Mines Act, 1930; how many have been confirmed; and how many are now in operation?

Mr. SHINWELL

No such schemes have been submitted since the passing of the Coal Mines Act, 1930.

Mr. COCKS

Has the Commission undertaken a preliminary survey?

Mr. SHINWELL

I understand it is more than a preliminary survey; it is a very comprehensive survey. The Commissioners are in communication with the coalowners with regard to it.

Mr. C. WILLIAMS

Are we to understand that nothing has been done under the Act except to close down pits?

Mr. SHINWELL

No, the hon. Gentleman must not understand anything of the kind. A great deal has been done.