asked the Minister of Fuel and Power what number of coal-winding shafts have gone out of commission since 1st January, 1935, up to, and including, 30th June, 1945.

Information is not available regarding the number of shafts used specifically for coal-winding. Since 1st January, 1935, and up to and including 30th June, 1945, it is known, however, that a total of 541 coal mines went out of commission.

Will the Minister set as his target the establishment of the same number of pits during the next ten years as were put out of commission during the past ten years?

It does not follow that it is to the national, advantage to open pits. It is much more important to concentrate them and use them efficiently.