Marquess of HARTINGTON(by Private Notice) asked the Secretary for Mines whether he is aware that limestone works in Derbyshire are being compelled to close owing to a shortage of coal and that large numbers of men are being thrown out of work, and what action he proposes to take in the matter?
§ Mr. SHINWELLI notice that the Noble Lord, in putting his question, introduces some information which is not contained in the question submitted to me. He refers to the district in which this alleged shortage occurs, and that is not contained in the question. The question put to me is:
To ask the Minister of Mines whether he is aware that limestone works are being compelled to close owing to a shortage of coal, that large numbers of men are being thrown out of work, and can anything be done?
§ Mr. SHINWELLThe reply is: I have had no complaint from limestone works of any shortage of coal until the Noble Lord a few minutes ago informed me about the matter. I will have the matter looked into and will communicate with him.
Marquess of HARTINGTONAs the hon. Member has said that I did not give him notice, may I say that immediately on receiving this telegram I telephoned to the head permanent officer in his Department informing him that the limestone works were in Derbyshire? May I ask him whether he is aware that there is only one district in Derbyshire where there are limestone works; and may I have an answer to the question?
§ Mr. SHINWELLI was not aware that there is only one limestone works in Derbyshire. I have told the Noble Lord that I will have this matter inquired into and will communicate with him.