HC Deb 23 January 1940 vol 356 cc383-4
81. Mr. De la Bère

asked the Secretary for Mines whether, with a view to decreasing unemployment amongst the coal-miners, the Government will take steps to increase the output from the mines and create a reserve stock of coal on the surface?

Mr. Lloyd

I am glad to say that the latest figures for the coal mining industry of the number registered as wholly unemployed show a fall of 9 per cent. since the beginning of September. At collieries where space permits it is the normal practice to stock coal in order to avoid idle time at the colliery. In addition, my Department are now making arrangements for the creation of stocks in consuming areas.

84. Mr. Tinker

asked the Secretary for Mines whether he is aware that many collieries are not working full time because of lack of wagons to take away the coal; and will he consider, in consultation with the colliery owners, the stocking of coal, where this happens, so that supplies shall be in readiness to meet the needs that may arise in future?

Mr. Lloyd

I am aware that there has been some shortage of wagons for loading, and, where it happens, the stocking of coal on the surface is a usual practice, if space is available. At the same time, as I stated in reply to my hon. Friend the Member for the Evesham Division of Worcester (Mr. De la Bère), my Department are now making arrangements for the creation of stocks in consuming areas.

Mr. T. Williams

As the stocking of coal is a costly business will the Secretary for Mines take steps with the Minister of Transport to get transport for the coal?

Mr. Lloyd

That is a matter for my right hon. and gallant Friend.

Mr. Shinwell

Have the recent efforts of the hon. Member to get facilities for the transport of coal had any beneficial effect?

Mr. Lloyd

Yes, Sir.

Mr. A. V. Alexander

Is the Secretary for Mines aware that in many towns this morning there is practically no coal for distribution to householders?

Mr. Lloyd

That may be due to transport difficulties.

Mr. T. Smith

Is the Minister aware of the complaints in South Yorkshire that they are working only three days a week?

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