§ Mr. Keelingasked the Minister of Fuel and Power how many American power-loading machines have been installed and at how many collieries, since he replied to a question on this subject on 9th November, 1943; and what tonnage of coal is being loaded by all such machines at the present time.
Major Lloyd GeorgeSince 9th November, 1943, six American power loading machines have been installed at the collieries previously referred to, and in addition loaders have been installed at three more collieries, making a total of 23 loaders at eight collieries. The total tonnage loaded by these machines now amounts to over 9,000 tons weekly. This is a disappointing figure, but the output is expected to improve as the operators gain experience, and the machines are brought into full operation.