HC Deb 06 July 1959 vol 608 cc97-8W
93. Mr. Hector Hughes

asked the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food if he will make a statement on the subjects discussed, and the conclusions reached, at his meetings last month with Ministers of the Government of the Republic of Ireland.

Mr. Maudling

I have been asked to reply.

There was an exchange of views on the implications for Anglo-Irish Trade of the proposed Free Trade Area between members of the "Stockholm Group" of countries. The desirability of maintaining and strengthening the special and traditional trade relations between the United Kingdom and the Republic was reaffirmed. It was agreed that there should be further discussions between Ministers as soon as practicable.

have been absorbed back into coal mining; and how many, to date, are still unemployed.

Mr. Iain Macleod

Of the 36 special colliery closures planned for this year 26 have been closed and two have been partially closed. The final stages of these two and eight further closures will take place before the end of this year. Details of the number of mineworkers affected by the closures which have so far taken place, the numbers re-employed in the mining industry who have obtained other employment, who have retired or are disabled and who remain unemployed respectively are: