HC Deb 03 October 1944 vol 403 cc715-6
6. Major Thorneycroft

asked the Minister of Fuel and Power whether he has received the final Report of the American Mining Section of the Combined War Resources Board upon the coal industry in this country.

Major Lloyd George

Yes, Sir.

Major Thorneycroft

Can the right hon. and gallant Gentleman make a copy of the Report available in the Library?

Major Lloyd George

I cannot say yet.

Mr. Shinwell

Is it not true that this Report contains a very serious indictment of the whole organisation of the mining industry in this country; that it exonerates the miners from all blame; and, in view of its importance in regard to the future of British industry in general, is it not desirable that hon. Members should be acquainted with the facts?

Major Lloyd George

At the moment the position is not quite what my hon. Friend suggests. A summary has been issued, by agreement on both sides, that is, between the Americans and ourselves. My hon. Friend will appreciate that we are not the only parties to this Report. Up to date the agreement has been to issue a summary, and that has been done.

Major Thorneycroft

Whatever this Report may or may not contain, is it not desirable that we should have it? What conceivable objection is there to making the whole Report and not a summary available, so that those interested in this very important matter of coal can have the benefit of seeing the views of experts?

Major Lloyd George

I am prepared to consider that. I only want to repeat that it is not a matter which is in my hands alone. This is a Report which applies to both sides of the Atlantic and at the moment the agreement is that we should only publish a summary. I am prepared to look into the matter but at the moment I cannot say any more.

Mr. Shinwell

Will the right hon. and gallant Gentleman agree to publish such part of the Report as refers exclusively to the organisation of the British mining industry, and we will concern ourselves with our own business and let the Americans themselves look after theirs?

Major Lloyd George

It is American business as well as ours, but I am prepared to consider the matter. I repeat that it is not a matter for us alone.

Mr. Shinwell

I beg to give notice that at the first opportunity I shall raise this very serious matter.