Major Lloyd:

asked the Minister of Fuel and Power whether it is intended to compensate merchants and workers who lost business and wages, on terms similar to the compensation to be paid to the miners who were recently thrown out of work by a strike, through no fault of their own.

No, Sir.

Major Lloyd:

Does not the right hon. Gentleman think that that answer contrasts strikingly with the attitude which he has adopted towards these miners who lose wages through no fault of their own? Why should they receive compensation any more than the unfortunate merchants who suffer equally with their employees? They have got no compensation whatever. Is that democratisation and a fair share for all?

The miners referred to by the hon. and gallant Member are in the employ of the National Coal Board and the Coal Board are responsible for their own employees in the interests of efficient coal mining and production, but they are not responsible in respect of the merchants.

Would the right hon. Gentleman agree that the merchants have also a responsibility towards their employees?

I have no doubt they have and that they will fulfil their responsibility.