§ Colonel WEDGWOODasked the Secretary for Mines whether he can give the House any information as to the reasons for the closing down of the Midland Coal, Coke and Iron Company's pits at Chesterton and Audley, whereby 3,000 men are thrown idle; will he 786W appoint a committee to inquire into the position; and whether any negotiations with one or other of the combines can be assisted?
§ Mr. TURNERI understand from Press reports that these pits have been closed by the receiver for the debenture holders in consequence of continued trading losses and failure to dispose of 787W the undertaking as a going concern. There are no public funds from which assistance could be given, and I fear that no special inquiry into the position, or any other action that I could take, would serve any useful purpose.