HC Deb 15 September 1931 vol 256 cc662-3
7. Mr. DAY

asked the President of the Board of Trade whether he can state the Government's intention with regard to legislation for the nationalisation of mining royalties?

Sir P. CUNLIFFE-LISTER

As the hon. Member will be aware the Government do not propose to embark on a programme of general legislation.

Mr. DAY

Can the right hon. Gentleman say whether the Government have considered this point?

Sir P. CUNLIFFE-LISTER

No, Sir, I do not think it will be any breach of confidence to say that we have not.

Mr. COCKS

Can he not proceed by means of Orders-in-Council?

Mr. R. A. TAYLOR

Will the right hon. Gentleman, in the interests of national economy, consider a compulsory 15 per cent. cut in mining royalties?

Sir P. CUNLIFFE-LISTER

The existing legislation provides for a very handsome cut in these royalties.

14. Mr. LAWTHER

asked the Secretary for Mines the amount in royalties, rents, and rates for social services as administered by local authorities paid by the mining industry in Durham for the quarter ended June, 1931, giving the amount per ton for the two services of royalties and rates, respectively?

The SECRETARY for MINES (Mr. Foot)

During the quarter ended 30th June, 1931, the estimated amount paid by colliery owners in Durham in royalties and wayleaves, including the rental value of freehold minerals where worked by the proprietors, was £178,000, or 5.80d. per ton of saleable coal raised. The corresponding figures for local rates for all purposes were £46,000 and 1.51d.

Mr. LAWTHER

Will the hon. Gentleman consider giving power to the local authority to make raids upon these royalties?

Mr. FOOT

That would be a question for someone else.

Mr. LAWTHER

Will the hon. Member pass on the good news?

Mr. FOOT

I should be happy in these days to pass on any good news.

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