§ 6. Mr. EDWARD WILLIAMSasked the Secretary for Mines whether he is 214 aware that Scottish coal is being imported into the Bristol Channel ports and the South Wales collieries producing the same class of coal are closing down, throwing hundreds of men out of employment; and whether he will inquire into the matter?
§ The SECRETARY for MINES (Mr. Shinwell)I am aware that Scottish coal is being imported into Bristol Channel ports, but the figures do not indicate any marked variation this year as compared with previous years. In 1929,. 52,115 tons were so imported, and in 1930, 40,880 tons. For the first five months of 1931, the quantity was 18,715 tons. The situation arising from the shipment of Scottish coal to South Wales is a matter within the competence of the Executive Board administering the South Wales District Coal Mines Scheme.
§ Mr. WILLIAMSHas the hon. Gentleman had any communication from the South Wales coalowners asking him to take action?
§ Mr. SHINWELLNo such communication has been received, but I understand that the South Wales Executive Board propose to take action.
§ Mr. BATEYCan the hon. Gentleman say the reason why the Scottish collieries obtain these contracts? Is it because Scottish minimum prices are less than the South Wales prices?
§ Mr. SHINWELLI believe that is so.
Lieut.-Colonel MOOREIs not the Minister aware that Scottish exporters of coal to other districts have to pay higher dues and charges, as they export the coal from their own ports of Ayr and Troon.
§ Mr. SHINWELLThat may be, but it does not affect the question.
§ Sir NICHOLAS GRATTAN-DOYLEIs the reason for the position of the Scottish industry compared with the Welsh industry the adoption of the spread-over plan?