HC Deb 21 June 1938 vol 337 cc863-5
5. Mr. J. Griffiths

asked the Secretary for Mines whether he can now make a statement in reference to the consultations he has recently had with representative bodies in the coal-mining industry on the difficulties of the export trade, particularly in the French market; and whether consideration has been given to the possibilities of the industry providing, from its own resources, organised assistance to the export trade?

Captain Crookshank

Consultations are still proceeding, and, as regards the French market, officials of my Department, accompanied by representatives of the United Kingdom coal trade, are meeting representatives of the French Government and French coal trade in Paris on 27th June, in order to discuss the position with them.

6. Mr. Griffiths

asked the Secretary for Mines whether, in view of the fact that it is becoming increasingly difficult to retain the export markets for British coal in the face of subsidised competition from certain European producers, he has considered giving the same form of Government assistance to retain our export trade; and whether he will make a statement on the matter?

Captain Crookshank

I would remind the hon. Member that the request for financial assistance for the coal export trade, submitted by the Joint Standing Consultative Committee for the Coal Industry in December, 1936, was withdrawn in March, 1937. It has not been renewed.

Mr. Griffiths

Is not the hon. and gallant Gentleman aware that last week, in the last example—the contract for the State railways—the price of Welsh coal was reduced from the current price by 3s. per ton, but that the contract was lost because the Germans reduced their price by 5s. per ton; and will the hon. and gallant Gentleman not have a consultation to see whether the Government can give assistance, and whether the owners can create, out of the very high profits made in the inland market, a pool from which the export trade can be assisted?

Captain Crookshank

That is a question for the industry itself.

Mr. A. Jenkins

Since 1936, has any application been made by the coalowners of this country for consideration to be given by the Government to the question of a subsidy on the exportation of coal?

Captain Crookshank

The position is as I have stated in my reply.