HC Deb 01 February 1944 vol 396 c1122
37. Sir John Mellor

asked the Minister of Fuel and Power what is the Government's policy for wage rates in the coal-mining industry; what are the terms of reference of the National Reference Tribunal; and whether their award of 22nd January was related to a change in the cost of living, to production, or other economic considerations.

Major Lloyd George

The Government's policy for wages machinery in the coal-mining industry was set out in paragraph 20 of the White Paper on Coal (Cmd. 6364) published on 3rd June, 1942; the functions of the National Reference Tribunal were set out in the third report of the board of investigation into wages and machinery for determining wages and conditions of employment in the coalmining industry which was incorporated in an agreement between the Mining Association and the Mineworkers' Federation of Great Britain on 25th May, 1943; the Tribunal's Award on 22nd January resulted from a reference to the Tribunal of an application by the Mineworkers' Federation; the grounds for the decision were stated in the Award and summarised by the Chairman, Lord Porter, in a statement issued to the Press on 23rd January.

Sir J. Mellor

Do the Government expect the award to increase production; and what will be the increase in the retail price of coal if the Government accept the award?

Major Lloyd George

Obviously, I must have notice of the second part of my hon. Friend's supplementary question, as the Government cannot possibly tell at this stage, and with regard to the first part relating to increased production, we had better wait and see.

Mr. Gallacher

Is the Minister aware that this means nothing whatever to the key men in the way of an increase and that it will have a very bad effect generally on the coal mining industry?