HC Deb 24 September 1931 vol 256 cc1820-1
85. Mr, T. SMITH

asked the Secretary for Mines whether the inquiry into the Lehmann process of coal refining has been completed; and, if so, whether he can make a statement with regard to the conclusions arrived at?

The SECRETARY for MINES (Mr. Foot)

A demonstration of the Lehmann process was recently arranged in Germany at which an officer of the Fuel Research Division of the Department of Scientific and Industrial Research was present. Certain tests on German coals were carried out and a report on the tests has been prepared. Some additional information is being obtained from Germany and until this is received it is not considered desirable to make any statement as to the conclusions contained in the report.

Mr. SMITH

Can the hon. Member say that when the results have been arrived at they will be made public, and can he say whether tests will be made of British coal?

Mr. FOOT

I cannot say whether they will be made public. If the results are satisfactory, we shall be glad to make them available to the hon. Member.