HC Deb 14 December 1939 vol 355 c1334W
Mr. Shinwell

asked the Secretary for Mines whether he is aware that certain pits in the North-Eastern area are still working short time; and whether, in view of the hardship imposed on the workers employed in those pits, he can give any assurance of an early improvement?

Mr. Lloyd

I am aware that there is a certain amount of short-time working through shipping difficulties, and all possible steps are being taken to meet the situation.