§ 33. Mr. Hardieasked the Secretary for Mines whether he is aware that the Glasgow Corporation sewage department invited tenders for the annual supplies of coal for the next 12 months and did not receive a single offer; and what action he intends to take to compel the coalowners to supply the undertaking with all its requirements in view of the importance of the service to the sanitation and health of the community?
§ Captain CrookshankI understand that the reason for the delay in making offers to the Glasgow Corporation sewage department in respect of a future contract for the supply of coal is that the colliery owners take exception to a clause in the contract form prepared by the corporation. The matter is under discussion between the parties. There is no question of the sewage department being without supplies of coal.
§ Mr. HardieIs the clause a preventive one?
§ Captain CrookshankI do not know what the clause is. The matter is being discussed between the people who are concerned, and not with me.
§ Mr. HardieHave not the Mines Department same say in contracts such as this, especially when the sanitation of the city is being held up by some dispute? Ought not the Mines Department to do their part?
§ Captain CrookshankWe do our part wherever it is necessary, but I cannot be expected to deal with the clauses of every contract throughout the country.