HC Deb 28 June 1920 vol 131 cc68-9W

Mr. INSKIP asked the President of the Board of Trade whether his attention has been called to the effect of the new restrictions on the export of coal from South Wales ports; and whether he is aware that, after a fortnight's experience of the restrictions, it is found that there are enormous quantities of coal in trucks which may not be exported and yet cannot be carried by the railway companies, and that in consequence many collieries in the western districts of South Wales are standing idle on several days each week?

Mr. BRIDGEMAN: I have had inquiries made with regard to the position in South Wales, and I am informed that out of approximately 600 pits, 8 of them have, from various causes, lost one day's work each during the last fortnight. This position does not differ from the normal in other times, and gives rise to no special anxiety.