§ 43. Mr. J. Griffithsasked the Secretary for Mines whether he can make a further statement in reference to the decree issued in Germany to increase the working hours of miners by 45 minutes per shift; and, in particular, what steps he is taking to protect the export trade of this country?
§ Captain CrookshankI have now seen a translation of the decree referred to. It provides for an increase, in the case of underground workers, of 45 minutes per shift, for a corresponding increase in the case of surface workers and for overtime payments. With regard to the second part of the question, I understand that these new measures are designed to meet the continuing rise in the German home demand, and if that is so it should not affect the United Kingdom export trade.
§ Mr. GriffithsDoes not the hon. and gallant Gentleman realise that this substantial increase in the working hours per shift in Germany, and the consequent increase in the amount of coal produced, will lead to greater difficulties in connection with the export market; and can he suggest any way in which those difficulties can be met?
§ Captain CrookshankAs far as I can see at present it does not follow that this action will have the effect upon the export trade which the hon. Member anticipates. Of course, we shall watch developments very carefully.
§ Mr. ShinwellDoes not the right hon. and gallant Gentleman agree that an increase of the production of coal in Germany for inland consumption will liberate coal for export; and does he not also agree that the effect of an increase of working hours in Germany may be to nullify the value of the coal agreement with that country?
§ Captain CrookshankIt is very hard to estimate exactly what will be the effect of any particular line of action taken by a foreign country, but I do not think it necessarily follows that the result in this case will be on the lines indicated by the hon. Gentleman's question.