HC Deb 17 April 1935 vol 300 cc1842-3
43. Mr. ROBINSON

asked the Secretary for Mines whether he is aware of the threatened stoppage of men employed by the Wigan Coal Company; and what steps have been taken to prevent it?

The SECRETARY for MINES (Mr. Ernest Brown)

I have seen a reference to this case in the Press and I am having further inquiry made. I will communicate the results to my hon. Friend as soon as possible

Mr. ROBINSON

Will the Government take every step to avoid a disastrous stoppage which may involve the livelihood of 10,000 men in Lancashire

Mr. BROWN

It is much too early to know whether my Department can render any assistance.

Mr. GORDON MACDONALD

Will the Secretary for Mines bear in mind the fact that this dispute is not only a wages question, but also a question of the tyrannical and objectionable methods adopted by the coalowners, and will he inquire from the Miners' Federation as well as from the coalowners?

Mr. BROWN

I shall ascertain all the facts relevant to the question put.