HC Deb 25 November 1930 vol 245 c1133W
Sir G. HURST

asked the Secretary for Mines whether be is aware that Canadian importers of Soviet coal have undertaken to purchase no more this winter; and will he consider bringing this to the notice of coal exporters in this country with a view to developing Empire trade?

Mr. SHINWELL

I understand that Canadian importers, at the request of the Dominion Government, gave an undertaking some weeks ago not to import anthracite from Russia during this autumn and winter, and that British coal exporters were fully aware of the position. As the hon. and learned Member will appreciate, the import of coal into Canada by sea between the closing and opening of the St. Lawrence is negligible.