asked the Prime Minister whether he will either appoint a Committee to inquire to what degree the present depression in the mining industry is due to lack of efficient organisation or invite the coalowners to make suggestions, other than the reduction of wages, for the improvement of the organisation of the mining industry?

I have been asked to reply. The causes of the present depression and possible remedies have recently been the subject of discussion between the coalowners and the mine workers, and I still hope that those discussions may be resumed with a sincere desire on both sides to find a way out of the present difficulties. I do not think that to appoint such a Committee as my Noble Friend suggests would help matters.

May I ask whether the money which is taken out of the mines in this country in profits and sent abroad to Northern China and other places for coalfield development, if invested at home would have put the mines Here into the highest state of scientific development?

I do not think that that arises out of the question.

It does.

If the suggested Committee were to inquire into all questions of that kind it would take many years.

If the Committee is made up of the gentlemen to whom I refer, how can you expect any sense of justice in the Report?

Is not almost all the evidence with regard to the inefficiency of the mines in Great Britain embodied in the Sankey Reports and recommendations, and will the right hon. Gentleman recommend the Prime Minister to rive effect to these recommendations?

If that is so. obviously an inquiry is not required.