HC Deb 02 March 1944 vol 397 cc1580-1
57. Viscount Hinchinģbrooke

asked the Minister of Fuel and Power how much coal was exported to the Argentine in 1943; and how much is scheduled for this year.

The Joint Parliamentary Secretary to the Ministry of Fuel and Power (Mr. Tom Smith)

I would refer my noble Friend to the answer which my right hon. and gallant Friend gave to a general question on this subject by my hon. and gallant Friend, the Member for Wycombe (Sir A. Knox) on 25th January.

Viscount Hinchinģbrooke

In conducting whatever negotiations have to be conducted for the export of coal this year, will my hon. Friend bear in mind that the public is hardly likely to approve of the export of any very great quantity of our greatest national asset to a country with whom our political relations are to some extent in dispute?

Mr. Smith

I think I would agree with my Noble Friend on the first part of the Question, but my right hon. and gallant Friend gave an assurance two weeks ago that no coal is exported from this country except what is absolutely necessary.

Mr. Shinwell

But is it really in the national interest that at this stage, having regard to Argentina's pro-Axis intentions, we should export coal to that country in view of the coal situation at home?

Mr. Smith

I can assure the hon. Member that it is in the national interest.

Mr. Shinwell

But who is to determine that it is in the national interest, and how is it to be determined? Are we not to have any reasons as to why it is in the national interest?

Mr. Smith

I can only repeat what my right hon. and gallant Friend said, that no coal would be exported from this country unless it was absolutely vital in the national interest.