HC Deb 30 September 1941 vol 374 cc454-5
64. Mr. T. Smith

asked the Secretary for Mines what is the number of collieries in each district where canteens are in existence serving sit-down, cooked, full meals to mineworkers?

Mr. Grenfell

Of the 751 pit-head canteens already in operation or in preparation there are 16 where full meals are at present being provided. Of these, seven are in West Yorkshire, four in Nottingham, two in South Yorkshire and one each in Lanarkshire, Northumberland and North Staffordshire. The type of service provided at pit-heads is governed by the local demand and the facilities available, but the Miners' Welfare Commission advises all collieries to consider establishing canteens capable of providing all types of service, including full meals where the demand for these exists.

Mr. Smith

Are conferences taking place in the localities where canteens are desired between the Welfare Commissioners and the different committees, and can my right hon. Friend say when the money from the Miners' Welfare Commission is likely to be liberated for the purpose of extending these very excellent canteens?

Mr. Grenfell

I have not the slightest doubt that the money can be liberated. The work is not delayed by lack of money. The conferences have now been held. I want to pay a tribute to the Miners' Welfare Commission, the Chairman of which is the right hon. and gallant Member for Central Nottingham (Sir F. Sykes). They are very actively engaged upon the whole plan for providing canteen accommodation.

Mr. Smith

Is not some credit due to the district welfare organisations for initiating the canteens?

Mr. Grenfell

I do not demur from that statement. The plans will have to be provided by the central organisation, but the local organisations have played their full part.