asked the Secretary for Mines whether he is prepared, when the Coast Mines Act, 1938, comes into operation, to consider taking steps to assist the working of the thin seams that are known to be rich in by products and the erection of factories, especial attention being given to the extraction of oil from coal, which is so much required both in times of peace and war, as these proposals would find work for a large number of the unemployed?

I must apologise for the absence, through illness, of my right hon. and gallant Friend for whom I have been asked to reply.

Under the provisions of the Coal Act, 1938, the mineral rights in coal will not vest in the Coal Commission until 1942. My right hon. and gallant Friend is not prepared to answer a hypothetical question so far in advance.

Can the hon. Member say in which districts it is proposed to erect these factories?

I should like to have notice of that question.