§ 20. Mr. T. WILLIAMSasked the Secretary for Mines whether he has recently been in consultation with the coalowners' association with regard to wage agreements; and can he make any statement to the House?
§ Mr. E. BROWNI have nothing to add to the answers I gave to the hon. Member for Ince (Mr. G. Macdonald) and the hon. Member for Leigh (Mr. Tinker) respectively, on the 28th February and the 21st March.
§ Mr. WILLIAMSCan the hon. Gentleman say whether any steps have been taken by his Department to secure joint discussion of the possibilities of July with a view to securing a peaceful and satisfactory agreement?
§ Mr. WILLIAMSWill the Minister tell us whether, Since the last reply was given, he has been in consultation with the Coalowners' Association?
§ Mr. WILLIAMSCan the hon. Gentleman say whether he contemplates meeting the Coalowners' Association with a view to securing a peaceful settlement of any outstanding problems there may be?
§ Mr. BROWNThe hon. Member may rest assured that I shall take all steps which are necessary to secure a peaceful settlement.
§ Mr. LAWSONWill the hon. Gentleman take steps to see that the Government do not take advantage of the very reasonable attitude of the Miners' Federation?
§ Mr. G. NICHOLSONWhen will the hon. Gentleman be able to make a statement of policy upon this matter?