HC Deb 19 October 1916 vol 86 cc761-2W
Mr. DUNCAN MILLAR

asked the Under-Secretary of State for the Home Department what steps have been taken to carry out the recommendations of the Coal Mining Organisation Committee on the subject of the internal reorganisation of mines and the provision of more suitable plant and haulage facilities so as to secure the largest possible output of coal from each colliery?

Mr. BRACE

I would refer the hon. Member to the second and third Reports of the Coal Mining Organisation Committee. Generally the industry has taken steps as far as possible to increase the output of coal in the ways indicated by the Committee, by reducing development work, working the more productive seams or parts of seams, improving haulage arrangements and the like; but it will be understood that there is great difficulty at the present time in obtaining new plant.

Mr. FFRENCH

asked the President of the Board of Trade if he has received any complaints from Wexford public bodies as to the high price of coal; and if he is prepared to do anything in the matter?

Mr. RUNCIMAN

I have received a copy of a resolution passed by the Wexford Board of Guardians on the subject. I would refer the hon. Member to the answer which I gave on Thursday last to a question asked by the hon. Member for the Leix Division, of which I am forwarding him a copy.