§ 21. Mr. T. WILLIAMSasked the Secretary for Mines what the output per coal- 181 face worker shift was in 1921–1925, and for the latest date for which figures are available?
§ Mr. E. BROWNInformation with regard to the average output of coal per manshift worked at the coal face for the year 1921 is not available. For the years 1922–25 the figures are as follow:
| Cwts. | |
| 1922 | 46.60 |
| 1923 | 45.14 |
| 1924 | 44.71 |
| 1925 | 45.60 |
§ The corresponding figure for the year 1932 was 55.84 cwts.
§ Mr. WILLIAMSIn view of the acknowledged increase in the output per person per day, does not the Minister think that it is his plain duty to interview the Coalowners' Association, so that they may reach a reasonable settlement of the matter?
§ Mr. BROWNThe Coalowners' Association on that point are well aware of the views of the Government, which have been put before them, not only by myself, but by other Members of the Government.
§ Mr. DAVID GRENFELLWill the Minister consider, in view of the increase of nearly 20 per cent. in the output, whether some share of the remuneration should not be given to the men?
§ Mr. HERBERT WILLIAMSCan the Minister say whether the hours worked are the same as in 1921–1925?