HC Deb 09 June 1943 vol 390 c718

The following Question stood upon the Order Paper, in the name of Mr. TINKER:

59. To ask the Minister of Town and Country Planning whether he is aware that open-cast mining is taking place on a large scale; that its operation is causing devastation; and will he, in the plan for reconstruction, consider examining the question of afforestation on the sites where the coal has been removed and so make the countryside a place of beauty?

Mr. Tinker

On a point of procedure. I have a Question on the Paper—Number 59—which has not been reached. Shall I be in Order in saying that I shall raise it on the Motion for the Adjournment on the next Sitting Day?

Mr. Speaker

No notice is required for doing that. If an opportunity is found, the hon. Member can raise it.

Mr. Tinker

The opportunity has not presented itself, although the Question is in the first 60 on the Paper. As there will not be much opportunity left, I think I am entitled to make my protest, and to say that I shall raise the matter on the Adjournment.

Commander Agnew

How does the hon. Member know in advance that the reply is going to be unsatisfactory?

Mr. Speaker

It is beyond my powers to answer that question.