HC Deb 24 February 1949 vol 461 cc2022-3
52. Mr. Osborne

asked the Minister of Labour if he is aware that 50,000 Lancashire miners threaten to strike unless their claim for a coal allowance is granted by 5th March; and, in view of the urgent need to prevent such a stoppage, what action he proposes to take.

Mr. Ness Edwards

I am aware of the negotiations between the National Coal Board and the National Union of Mineworkers in regard to this claim. There is, however, ample machinery for dealing with it and I do not propose to intervene.

Mr. Osborne

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that the leader of the Miners' Union has said that he will not be able to hold his men in hand unless this concession is granted? Would it not be better for the right hon. Gentleman to take action now rather than wait until trouble breaks out?

Mr. Ness Edwards

It is very unwise for hon. Gentlemen in any part of the House to do anything which will weaken the machinery which exists for the settlement of this problem, and I should deplore any attempt to intervene at this stage.