§ 12. Sir J. Mellorasked the Secretary for Mines whether he is aware of the shortage of coal for industrial purposes in Birmingham; and what steps he proposes to take to ensure that adequate supplies shall be available?
§ Captain CrookshankI am aware that there have recently been some difficulties in obtaining supplies of small coals and slacks in the Birmingham area, the demand for which has increased substantially during the past few months. I understand that the difficulties are largely due to the fact that, owing to the mild weather, there has been a relatively poor demand for large coal for household purposes which governs the quantity of small 1807 coal produced. I have impressed upon the colliery owners the need for taking all possible steps to improve the supply of small coal, if necessary, by crushing the larger sizes.
§ Sir J. MellorDoes not my hon. and gallant Friend consider that the shortage is very largely due to restrictions upon output, and does he not think it would be in the national interest that such restrictions should be brought to an end?
§ Captain CrookshankThe hon. Member opens up a very large question of debate. All I can say is that his suggestion that the quota regulations had anything to do with this shortage is not the view held by the Cannock Chase Committee of Investigation, which looked into this matter arising out of a complaint made by the Birmingham Corporation Electricity Works. They found it had nothing to do with the quota.