§ Mr. G. SPENCERasked the Minister of Labour whether he is aware that the members of the Miners' Federation of Great Britain have given notice to terminate their wage agreement; and whether he proposes to institute a Committee to inquire into all the relevant facts of the industry so as to avoid a possible stoppage?
§ Mr. HANNONasked the Minister of Labour whether he is aware that there are indications of very serious trouble in the coal-mining industry; that notices have been given by branches of the Miners' Federation which may lead to a stoppage of work at the end of a period of eight weeks from the present date; and what steps he proposes to take to avert such a calamity?
§ Mr. SHINWELLI have been asked to reply. The notice given by the Miners' Federation for the termination of the present agreement expires on 17th April. The progress of negotiations for a new agreement between the Mining Association and Miners' Federation has unfortunately been delayed for various reasons, but I understand that their representatives are to meet on 6th March to discuss the matter. The Government fully realise how serious are the 507W possibilities of the situation, and are keeping in close touch with it. I do not think that it is desirable to say more than this at present.