HC Deb 15 March 1938 vol 333 c201
34. Mr. J. Griffiths

asked the Secretary for Mines whether he is aware of the large number of collieries that have recently been rendered idle in the anthracite coalfield, South Wales; what are the causes of this depression in this coalfield; and what steps he is taking to improve the inland and export trade in anthracite coal to enable these collieries to resume work?

Captain Crookshank

I am aware that several anthracite collieries have recently closed. As was indicated in my reply to the hon. Member on 9th December, the present difficulties of the anthracite trade are mainly attributable to the variations in the value of the franc. As regards the last part of the question, the hon. Member may rest assured that any opportunity of securing additional trade which offers will be taken.

Mr. Griffiths

Will not the hon. and gallant Gentleman reply to the question as to the steps he is taking to assist the industry to overcome the difficulties over which they have little control?

Captain Crookshank

So far as the difficulties are due to the fluctuations of the franc I have no control, and nobody else has.

Mr. Griffiths

Are we to understand that the Minister is replying that the Government can give no help at all to the industry to overcome difficulties over which the industry has no control but for which the Government may have some control?

Captain Crookshank

I cannot accept that I have any control as far as it has anything to do with the fluctuations of the franc.

Mr. Griffiths

Then the Minister's reply is that the Government can do nothing to help us to keep the export trade?

Captain Crookshank

The hon. Member must not put words into my mouth that did not come out of it.