HC Deb 27 June 1949 vol 466 cc734-5
30. Mr. Ernest Davies

asked the Minister of Fuel and Power if he will arrange for the publication of a brief summarised edition of the report of the National Coal Board and make it available at a popular price.

Mr. Robens

The National Coal Board are considering what means should be adopted to bring the contents of the report to the notice of a wider public, and in particular of the members of colliery consultative committees. Meanwhile, I understand, a summary of the report will be published in the next issue of the Board's magazine "Coal."

Mr. Davies

Will my hon. Friend consider publishing this as a White Paper in order that it can be available to the general public at a popular price?

Mr. Robens

Publication is not my right hon. Friend's responsibility. He is responsible merely for presenting the report to Parliament. If the National Coal Board do produce a popular edition at a low price, I am sure it will meet the wishes of the House and my hon. Friend.

Mr. Keeling

Can the Parliamentary Secretary give an assurance that in any reprint or abbreviated form of this report the unfortunate misprint on page 15 will not be repeated?

Mr. Robens

The hon. Member can be satisfied my right hon. Friend and the Coal Board have had that matter drawn to their attention on many occasions and that it is hardly likely to be repeated.