§ 7. Mr. Ellis Smithasked the Minister of Fuel and Power if he is aware that in North Staffordshire there was great appreciation of the canteen facilities, but during the past few weeks the amount of porridge has been reduced, there is no soap, towels, and that cigarettes and tobacco are scarce; and, as relationship between all grades was never better, if he will have action taken at once so that these irritants shall not affect output.
§ Mr. ShinwellInquiries have disclosed that at some canteens in North Staffordshire temporary shortages of one item or another have occurred recently owing to transport difficulties due to abnormal weather. These are now being remedied.
§ Mr. Ellis SmithIs my right hon. Friend aware that we achieved maximum output in this area which was a record, and will he take all the necessary steps to remove these irritations?
§ Mr. ShinwellI am well aware of the efforts of the North Staffordshire miners, and we are very grateful for what they have done. As my hon. Friend is no doubt aware, the provision of canteen facilities is now dealt with partly by the National Coal Board and partly by the Miners Welfare Commission, and I know it is a matter to which they attach great importance.
§ Mr. M. MacMillanCan the Minister state whether porridge has had a big part in the greatly increased output in Scotland since the nationalisation of the coal industry?
§ Mr. ShinwellNo doubt the organisations concerned will take note.