§ 40. Mr. T. Smithasked the Secretary for Mines whether, in view of the need for maximum coal production, consideration has been given to the setting up of joint pit committees as laid down in the Mining Industry Act?
§ Mr. GrenfellI recognise the valuable contribution which joint pit committees are capable of making to increase coal production, and I am glad to say that such bodies have been set up at many collieries by mutual arrangement between the management and the workmen's representatives. I should like to see the system even more general than it is, but I do not believe in the imposition of it by any form of compulsion or Order.
§ Mr. SmithHas this question been discussed by the Joint Consultative Committee and have colliery managers and trade unions in different localities been circularised as to the benefit of such committees?
§ Mr. GrenfellAs the hon. Member knows, there are frequent meetings of the National Production Council and I attend those meetings. As recently as to-day, we have discussed steps for enlisting the utmost co-operation from both sides of the industry.
§ Sir P. HannonWill the Minister tell the House now that the morale and public spirit of the mining community throughout the country stand at a very high level?
§ Mr. GrenfellThat is a thing that goes without saying. I am glad to say that morale stands to-day at as high a level as ever it did.