HC Deb 11 July 1935 vol 304 c491
58. Mr. T. SMITH

asked the Secretary for Mines whether he is in a position to make a statement with regard to the findings of the Midland (Amalgamated) Committee of Investigation into the complaints of shortage of coal made by the Humber Coal Exporters Association?

Captain CROOKSHANK

At the end of last week I received a report from the Midland (Amalgamated) Committee of Investigation that the provisions of the district scheme require amendment, possibly by means of an export tonnage pool, to provide for greater elasticity in connection with the supply of coal for export and for foreign and trawler bunkers. Under the provisions of Section 5 (6) of the 1930 Act, I have to consult the interests which appear to be affected before I reach any decision on this report. I have accordingly asked the executive board administering the district scheme and the complainants to let me have their observations on the report as soon as possible.

Mr. SMITH

Is it expected that the hon. and gallant Gentleman will be able to give some statement to the House before we rise at the end of this month, in view of the very grave urgency of the matter both from the point of view of the exporters and the men employed in the coalfields?

Captain CROOKSHANK

I recognise the urgency of the matter, but I cannot deal with it until the complainants and the executive board have let me have their observations on the report. I have no doubt they will do that quickly.

Forward to