§ 7. Miss Irene Wardasked the Minister of Fuel and Power what is the estimated additional annual tonnage per man year attributable to the machinery introduced in the mines since 1947; and, in comparing the estimated output per man year for 1951 with 1938, what account is taken of the productive increase attributable to the new machinery.
§ Mr. P. Noel-BakerChanges in the output of coal per man-year result not only from the use of more and better machines, but also from improvements in the organisation of the collieries, from the improvement or worsening of working conditions, the number of shifts worked, and other factors. I regret that, in consequence, I cannot make the estimate for which the hon. Member asks.
§ Miss WardArising out of the fact that the right hon. Gentleman evidently has not tried to find out the answer, could he tell us what Sir Charles Reid has estimated that the increased tonnage ought to be?
§ Mr. Noel-BakerNo, Sir. I cannot.
§ Miss WardWould the right hon. Gentleman refer to what Sir Charles Reid had to say just before his resignation?
§ Mr. Noel-BakerYes, Sir. I will certainly do that. But, if I may suggest it, perhaps the hon. Lady might like to discuss this with the management and the miners at a pit in her constituency. If so, I shall be very glad to arrange it.
§ Mr. Noel-BakerIf I am able, nothing will give me greater pleasure.