HC Deb 20 June 1921 vol 143 cc904-5W
Mr. FORREST

asked the President of the Board of Trade whether instructions can be given that farmers shall have some measure of preference in the distribution of coal for thrashing and cultivating purposes immediately the mines are working?

Mr. BRIDGEMAN

I do not think it is necessary or desirable, when there is a general resumption of work at the mines, to give preferences to particular consumers. Indeed, when the emergency is declared at an end, the Government will not be in a position to give such instructions.