§ Mr. C. EDWARDS(by Private Notice) asked the Secretary for Mines whether he is in a position to give the House any information respecting the results obtained from the use of the new coal 1479 fuel Colloidal on the Cunard steamship "Scythia," and if these experiments and trials are successful what steps will the Government take to secure that these patents and processes are held for the use and service of the British nation?
§ Mr. COLVILLEI have been asked to reply. My hon. Friend and the Board of Trade have been in touch with the Cunard Steamship Company who have been good enough to supply confidentially information regarding this experiment. They hope to receive in due course detailed information as to the results. At present there is nothing which could usefully be given to the House. In regard to the second part of the question, it is too early for the Government to decide whether there is any action which they could usefully take in the event of the experiment being successful.
§ Mr. MORGAN JONESWill the hon. Member make a fuller statement on behalf of the Government before the House rises for the holidays?
§ Mr. COLVILLEPerhaps the hon. Member will put that question to the Secretary for Mines. I can assure the hon. Gentleman that this matter is being closely and carefully watched by the Government.