§ 10. Mr. TINKERasked the Secretary for Mines whether he has considered the request from representatives of the Bristol miners to make inquiries into the suggested closing down of two collieries, seeing that if these collieries are stopped it will mean putting out of employment several hundreds of men; and will he state what steps he is taking to prevent this happening?
§ Captain CROOKSHANKThe answer to the first part of the question is in the affirmative. With regard to the second part, I understand that the East Bristol Collieries, Limited, hive decided to close down their Speedwell Colliery owing to trading losses, but that their Parkfield Colliery is to be carried on for the time being on a limited scale. The problem is entirely an economic one, and I am afraid that it is not in my power to assist.
§ Mr. TINKERCan the Minister arrange a conference with the owners and miners, because the closing down of one pit may lead to the closing down of another owing to water trouble, and his intervention might help?
§ Mr. G. GRIFFITHSSeeing that the mineowners made £5,500,000 and the royalty owners £5,000,000, does not the Minister think it would be good if the mines were nationalised?
§ Mr. TINKERWill the Minister give an answer to my question?
§ Captain CROOKSHANKAs I understand the position, it is due to trading loss that this company has to close down. If there is any question of a possible danger elsewhere, I will have special inquiry made.
§ Mr. BATEYDoes the hon. and gallant Gentleman realise that this is a serious matter to this district, for, if this colliery closes, there is a likelihood of the closing of another and there will be no colliery in the district? Will he endeavour to get the owners and men together to see whether something can be done to keep this pit working?