HC Deb 01 March 1983 vol 38 c134 3.32 pm
Mr. Ray Powell (Ogmore)

I beg to ask leave to move the Adjournment of the House, under Standing Order No. 9, for the purpose of discussing a specific and important matter that should have urgent consideration, namely, the decision of the south Wales National Union of Mineworkers to call all their members to take strike action as from yesterday". The NUM has also decided to solicit support from all parts of the country due to the National Coal Board's decision to close the Tynmawr Lewis Merthyr colliery, Rhondda, and its persistent refusal to make adequate capital investment available for the general development and maintenance of the south Wales coalfield.

The matter is specific because 23,500 miners in south Wales are on strike and the Yorkshire miners will take strike action on Monday. Many other areas are considering proposals for a national miners' strike. Strike action is a direct result of the NCB's refusal to halt the closure of pits and of fear of an escalation of pit closures, a reduction of job opportunities for the present labour force and an eradication of prospects for recruitment.

The matter is undoubtedly important because of the strike's consequences for vital industries' electricity and fuel supplies, the danger to health and hospital services and many other dangers to the well-being of the nation.

The matter is urgent for many reasons, especially for a new deal for miners, the coal industry and the economy, which can only be achieved if discussions between the Government, the NCB and the NUM are held before the strike escalates into a nationwide strike.

I hope that I have proved the essential need for a debate, have demonstrated that the matter is specific, important and overwhelmingly urgent, and that you, Mr. Speaker, will grant my request.

Mr. Speaker

The hon. Member for Ogmore (Mr. Powell) gave me notice before 12 o'clock midday that he would seek leave to make an application under Standing Order No. 9. [Interruption.] Order. The hon. Member for Bolsover (Mr. Skinner) ought to be satisfied that he shouted all through Question Time. He should not try to shout when I am speaking as well.

The hon. Member for Ogmore asks leave to move the Adjournment of the House for the purpose of discussing a specific and important matter that he thinks should have urgent consideration, namely, the decision of the south Wales National Union of Mineworkers to call all their members to take strike action as from yesterday". As the House knows, under Standing Order No. 9, I am directed to take account of the several factors set out in the order but to give no reason for my decision.

I have given careful consideration to the representations that the hon. Gentleman has made, but I have to rule that the hon. Gentleman's submission does not fall within the provisions of the Standing Order and, therefore, I cannot submit his application to the House.