HC Deb 04 April 1938 vol 334 cc27-8
58. Sir John Mellor

asked the Secretary for Mines whether representative bodies of consumers of coal will be consulted by the executive boards and by the Ministry with regard to the drafting of amendments to schemes proposed for the purpose of making the assurances set forth in Command Paper No. 5693 statutorily binding?

Captain Wallace

I have been asked to reply. There is no occasion for specific consultation, as the amendments need my hon. and gallant Friend's approval, and it will be his duty to ensure that they cover adequately the assurances which have been given.

Sir J. Mellor

As these amendments are being made for the better assurance of consumers of coal, does my hon. and gallant Friend not think that more confidence would be inspired if representatives of the consumers could be consulted?

Captain Wallace

As I have said, it will be the duty of my hon. and gallant Friend the Secretary for Mines to ensure that these amendments actually achieve the purpose for which they are designed, and I can imagine no better safeguard than that; but I will certainly convey to him the views of my hon. Friend.