HC Deb 04 May 1932 vol 265 c1104
39. Mr. V. ADAMS

asked the Secretary for Mines whether he has any statement to make with regard to the efforts which His Majesty's Government are making to ensure a peaceful solution of the present situation in the coal-mining industry?

The SECRETARY for MINES (Mr. Isaac Foot)

I would refer my hon. Friend to the answer given yesterday by the Prime Minister to the hon. Member for Gorbals (Mr. Buchanan).

Mr. PIKE

Will the hon. Gentleman consider the advisability of denying the allegations which are being made in the Press that the Ministry of Mines is co-operating with the owners in order to prevent the claims of the Miners' Federation becoming effective?

Mr. FOOT

We are in touch with both the owners and miners, but at present no decision whatever has been come to by the Government, nor has any Bill been put in hand. Any statements to the contrary are wholly unfounded.

Mr. KIRKWOOD

In the event of the mineowners trying to impose harsh terms on the miners, will the Government take the side of the miners?