HC Deb 25 July 1933 vol 280 c2387
9. Mr. T. WILLIAMS

asked the Secretary for Mines whether the Coalowners' Association have yet submitted proposals for amending Part I of the Coal Mines Act, 1930; and, if so, will he state the Government attitude towards them?

Mr. E. BROWN

The position is as it was when I replied on 27th June to similar questions by the hon. Members for Widnes (Mr. Robinson) and for Aberdare (Mr. G. Hall). I am sending the hon. Member a copy of that reply.

Mr. WILLIAMS

Did not the hon. Member lead the House to believe that unless the coalowners made up their minds to some amendment of Part I the Government had made up their mind that they would take action?

Mr. BROWN

If my hon. Friend will consult me, I will send him the statement made by the President of the Board of Trade on that question.

Mr. WILLIAMS

How much longer is the hon. Member going to allow the coal-owners to destroy themselves, and the miners as well, in this process before doing something?

Mr. BROWN

There are times when patience is the best policy.

Mr. ROBINSON

Will the hon. Member do his best to get this question settled?

Mr. BROWN

My hon. Friend knows that I am fully aware of the urgency and difficulties of the question.