§ 79. Sir J. Mellorasked the Minister of Fuel and Power why ex gratia payments have been made to Durham mineworkers by the Coal Board in connection with recent strikes; what amount was paid and how distributed; and whether he is satisfied that all mineworkers received their fair share irrespective of trade union membership.
§ Mr. GaitskellSubject to their statutory functions and duties the National Coal Board have the same liberty as any other employer to make such payments to their employees as they consider proper and in such manner as they see fit, and I regret that I have no information on the points raised by the hon. Member other than that contained in the statement issued by the Board on 9th May