§ 63. Sir Nicholas Grattan-Doyleasked the Secretary for Mines whether he has any information as to the provisions of the agreement arrived at for the international control of the coke export trade; and whether, in view of the increased world demand for coke, he is satisfied that the agreement will not operate to the disadvantage of the users of coke in this country?
§ Captain CrookshankThe International Coke Convention is a business arrangement between the industrialists concerned to which the Government is not a party, but fairly full information as to its provisions has been published in the Press. I have no reason to believe that the arrangement will operate to the disadvantage of the consumers of coke in this country.
§ Mr. James GriffithsSince the hon. and gallant Member is satisfied that this international agreement to regulate the sale of coke will not be to the disadvantage of this country, does he not think he ought to take steps to secure a similar agreement in respect of coal exports?
§ Captain CrookshankI have made it clear that the Government were not parties to this arrangement. It is a business arrangement made by the industrialists concerned.
§ Mr. GriffithsSince the hon. and gallant Gentleman is satisfied that this international coke agreement is an advantage, will he not press upon the coal interests that they should adopt similar measures?
§ Captain CrookshankThe reply which I gave to the previous question made a reference to that point, and perhaps the hon. Member will look it up.