Miners' Halls (Political Meetings)

26.

Mr. Osborne
asked the Minister of Fuel and Power if it is the policy of the National Coal Board to make miners' halls available for public political meetings.

Mr. Shinwell
I am informed by the National Coal Board that premises owned by them are not ordinarily available for political purposes. An exception is made where a hall belonging to the National Coal Board is the only one available in the locality. In these cases permission may be given for the use of the hall provided there is no discrimination between one political party and another.

Mr. Osborne
Will the Minister use his considerable influence with the National Coal Board to see that these halls, particularly in a small community, are made available to all?

Mr. Shinwell
That is precisely what I said.