§ Mr. ROYCEasked the Secretary for Mines if he is aware that, owing to the removal of control, the price of anthracite washed coal for gas-producing purposes has been increased by £1 0s. 3d. per ton. 2043W whether this increase will severely handicap other industries and cause more unemployment; and can he take any steps to remedy this?
§ Mr. BRIDGEMANI have seen a statement in the Press to the effect that collieries in South Wales have decided to increase the price of anthracite nuts by 20s. per ton. The hon. Member will agree that there is no reason why the coal industry should be penalised, in favour of other industries, by being forced to sell coal at less than its cost of production. If the price charged is excessive, the remedy lies in proceedings under the Profiteering Act, under which coal is scheduled.