asked the Secretary for Mines if the coal merchants in the Rowley Regis district of Staffordshire have received notices from the coalowners in the Cannock Chase area announcing an advance of 2s. and 3s. per ton on various kinds of house coal; and the reason why the increase has been asked for?

I am informed that certain of the Cannock Chase collieries reduced their prices by 8s. a ton during the past two months owing to the slack demand for house coal, and that the recent advance in prices is due to an improvement in the demand.

Does the hon. and gallant Gentleman not think that the reason why these particular colliery owners have jumped up the prices is in consequence of the threatened stoppage in the coal field, and does he not think that it is what we call black highway robbery?

On a point of Order. The late Speaker always ruled that it was not in order to ask a Minister what he thought, and I should like to know. Sir, whether that is your ruling?

My experience is that when these questions are asked, it is really a case of hon. Member? contributing their own views.

I wanted your ruling, Mr. Speaker.

Questions of that kind are for Debate, and not for Question Time. That is my ruling.

Mr. W. M. ADAMSON:

Is the hon. and gallant Gentleman aware that the Cannock Chase coalowners put the men on full time—the first time for months—a week ago, and that they are now stacking coal?

If that be so, it seems to show the benefit of getting increased prices for coal.