HC Deb 02 May 1940 vol 360 c872
8. Mr. A. Jenkins

asked the Minister of Labour the number of coal miners in South Wales and Monmouthshire registered as unemployed?

Mr. Assheton

At 11th March, 1940, there were 13,319 insured men, aged 18–64, recorded as unemployed in the coal-mining industry in South Wales and Monmouthshire. In association with representatives of employers and workpeople in the coal-mining industry, reviews of the unemployment register are being undertaken in a number of mining areas where there is an unsatisfied demand for labour, with the object of determining the extent to which men can be placed in mining employment.

Mr. Jenkins

May I ask whether the Minister intends to transfer any of the miners from South Wales to other parts of the British coalfields?

Mr. Assheton

The hon. Member will be aware that there are powers to assist in providing the fares of men who are so transferred.

Mr. Jenkins

Is the Minister aware that there are many pits in South Wales closed at the present time—pits which could be opened and which would be sufficient to absorb all the unemployed labour there?

Mr. Assheton

I think that is another question.

Mr. George Hall

Will the Minister reply to my hon. Friend's Supplementary Question as to whether it is the intention of the Ministry of Labour to transfer any miners from South Wales to any other coalfield?

Mr. Assheton

That also, I must point out, is another question.