§ 26. Mr. GEORGE HALLasked the Secretary for Mines whether his attention has been called to the serious falling off of the coal export trade from South Wales, caused largely by subsidised German and Polish competition; and what action, if any, the Government propose taking to deal with this matter?
§ Captain CROOKSHANKYes, Sir. Though, fortunately, the inland trade in South Wales coal shows some improvement, the serious decline in South Wales coal exports is causing grave concern. This is due to a variety of causes, not the least of which is the delay in obtain- 1856 ing payment from some of our important foreign customers. I can assure the hon. Member that no opportunity of assisting the South Wales coal export trade will be overlooked.
§ Mr. HALLDoes that mean that the Government have no policy for dealing with the very serious situation now prevailing in South Wales?
§ Captain CROOKSHANKNo, Sir, I do not think that can be deduced from my reply.