§ 11. Mr. GOULDasked the Secretary for Mines what was the average amount paid in rates upon each ton of coal raised in the Somerset coalfield, and similar figures for royalties for such period for which the figures are available before derating took place and any subsequent period?
§ Mr. SHINWELLDuring the year ended 30th September, 1929, the amount of royalties and wayleaves, including the rental value of freehold minerals where worked by the proprietor, payable by the colliery owners in Somersetshire was 7.12d. per ton of saleable coal raised. The corresponding figure for the year ended 31st December, 1930, was 6.65d. I regret that similar information with regard to local rates is not available.
§ Sir CHARLES OMANOn a point of Order. Mr. Speaker, will you kindly ask the hon. Member not to read into his Paper, but to speak to the House?
§ Mr. SPEAKERThe hon. Gentleman is suffering from a severe cold, and perhaps the House will make allowances for that fact.
Lieut. - Colonel Sir FREDERICK HALLWould it not be in order for someone to read the reply of the hon. Member?