HC Deb 11 February 1937 vol 320 cc576-7
47. Mr. Tinker

asked the Prime Minister whether his attention has been drawn to the closing down of three collieries in Lancashire, Westhoughton, Strangeways, and Westleigh; and will he give a day to discuss the Notice of Motion standing on the Order Paper in the name of the hon. Member for Leigh, which asks the House of Commons to consider the appointment of a Minister whose duty it shall be to keep a careful watch on each district or area that may be affected by closing of works, so that immediate steps can be taken to deal with the situation?

["That, being of opinion that much of the distress caused by the closing down of works could be avoided, this House recommends the appointment of a Minister whose chief duty shall be to keep a careful watch on each district and area so that he can call the attention of the Cabinet to what he considers may lead to unemployment and distress unless action is taken immediately."]

The Prime Minister

I fear that I can hold out no hope of time being found for the discussion of this Motion.

Mr. Tinker

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that the closing down of Westleigh Colliery put out of work 1,300 men, and that no provision was made for them; and will he use his influence to see that an arrangement is made to enable the House of Commons to discuss the whole matter?

The Prime Minister

I would remind the hon. Member that there are occasions on which this subject can be discussed. He has asked me if I can find time for a Motion, and I regret to say that I cannot, because from now until the very early Easter that we have this year, the House will be so occupied with finance, which must be passed, that I fear that I can hold out no hope of a Debate being allowed.

Mr. Batey

Seeing that this question is of very great importance, will the right hon. Gentleman give his personal attention to the matter and see if something cannot be done?

The Prime Minister

I did follow the question and the answer given, and I will certainly look into the matter, but I cannot make any change in the answer which I have given.

Mr. Rhys Davies

In view of the very serious conditions which have arisen in these areas, will the right hon. Gentleman call the attention of one of his Ministers to the situation?