§ Mr. R. J. Taylorasked the Secretary for Mines whether he is aware of the serious loss of output caused by short-time working at the Bedlington collieries, due to the shortage of wagons; and whether he will take steps to remove this shortage?
§ Mr. LloydI have communicated with my right hon. Friend the Minister of Transport, who informs me that this colliery has received sufficient wagons to enable it to continue working provided that the wagons standing under load are forwarded with reasonable despatch. Owing to shipping difficulties, this has not been possible. Such difficulties caused by irregularity of arrival of ships are not confined to this colliery, and I am in consultation with my right hon. Friend the Minister of Shipping on the matter.