§ Sir R. THOMASasked the Minister of Health what information he has regarding the present, stage of development of the Kent coalfield; to what extent it will be possible to avoid the nuisance of industrial smoke in this area; and whether there are in force such stipulations regarding town-planning as will prevent the creation of housing conditions similar to those prevailing in the older coalfields?
Mr. CHAMBERLAINMy information is that three mines are working and one being sunk. I understand that electricity is likely to be extensively used in the working of the mines, and that the risk of smoke nuisance will thus be much reduced. Provision is being made to ensure that the housing and other development is in accordance with town-planning conditions.