HC Deb 17 March 1931 vol 249 cc1841-2
19. Colonel BROWN

asked the Secretary for Mines what replies he has given to communications addressed to him either from employers or employés asking for the repeal of the Coal Mines Act of 1930?

Mr. SHINWELL

I have received only one communication from a coalowner, and two from groups of workmen representing individual pits, asking for the repeal of Part I of the Act. There is no intention of repealing the Act.

Poland At 31st January, 1931 1,192,000 metric tons.
Ruhr At 21st February, 1931 9,893,000 metric tons (including the coal equivalent of 4,753,300 metric tons of coke and 139,000 metric tons of briquettes).
German Upper Silesia. At 31st December, 1930 1,024,000 metric tons (including the coal equivalent of 467,000 metric tons of coke).
The Rubr and German Upper Silesia cover 93 per cent. of the coal production of Germany.
30. Mr. GORDON MACDONALD

asked the Secretary for Mines the quantity of German and Polish coal imported into this country during January and February, 1931, respectively?

Mr. SH1NWELL

The answer is none.

Mr. MACDONALD

Does not the reply show that the agitation that is being carried on has no foundation in fact?

Colonel BROWN

Has the hon. Gentleman brought these communications to the notice of the Cabinet?

Mr. SHINWELL

Quite clearly, there is no need for that.

HON. MEMBERS

Why?