§ 31. Mr. Erringtonasked the Secretary for Mines whether he is aware that certain South Wales collieries desire to supply Lancashire consumers but are prohibited from making quotations by the Central Council of Coalowners; and whether, in view of the present state of industry in South Wales and the interference with the coastwise shipping trade of the port of Liverpool, His Majesty's Government are prepared to take any steps in regard thereto?
§ Captain CrookshankI am advised that the Central Council of Colliery Owners have neither issued a direction nor taken any action to prevent South Wales collieries from supplying coal in Lancashire. The second part of the question does not, therefore, arise.
§ Mr. ErringtonWill my hon. and gallant Friend give some explanation as to why it is that coal cannot be obtained by Lancashire consumers from South Wales collieries?
§ Captain CrookshankNo, Sir. I have answered the question on the Paper.
§ Mr. H. G. WilliamsWill my hon. and gallant Friend explain why it is that the coal merchant in Liverpool who offered this South Wales coal to the corporation was told that he had to withdraw his tender because instructions had been received from the Central Coal Council that South Wales coal was not to be sent to Liverpool?
§ Captain CrookshankNo, Sir, I cannot, because that is exactly contrary to what I have just said in reply to my hon. Friend.