§ 51. Mr. TINKERasked the Minister for the Co-ordination of Defence whether, in view of the risks of a sudden emergency and the supply of oil being cut off from oversea sources and the greater need for coal, be will examine, or cause inquiries to be made, where it is contemplated closing down collieries?
§ Dr. BURGINI have been asked to reply. The potential capacity of the coal industry is more than adequate to meet any possible demand, and is not appreciably affected by the closing of individual pits. The general question, however, is one which the Government will keep in mind.
§ Mr. TINKERWhile agreeing that there may be adequate supplies, at the same time I should not like pits to be closed down without some attention being given to the matter; and will the hon. Gentleman consult his right hon. Friend and the Secretary for Mines about the Bristol coalfield, where there is some danger of closing down?
§ Dr. BURGINCertainly, Sir.