Mr. Reedasked the Minister of Fuel and Power (1) whether he will explain the full implication of Statutory Rule and Order, No. 504; and how the sum of £500,000 mentioned in Clause 1 has been ascertained;
(2) whether he will explain the full implication of Statutory Rule and Order, No. 503; and how the sum of £1,500,000 mentioned in Clause I has been ascertained?
Major Lloyd GeorgeThese Orders arise under pre-war legislation. Under Section 24 of the Coal Act, 1938, I am required to prescribe the minimum amount to be held for the time being to the credit of the Coal Commission's reserve fund. I am also required to prescribe the minimum annual appropriation to be made by the Commission to this fund. The purpose of the reserve fund is to enable the Commission to meet any deficiency arising on its revenue account and any extraordinary claim or demand. The sums prescribed in the Orders are those which, in the opinion of those responsible, are appropriate in the present circumstances.