Oral Answers to Questions — European Coal Organisation

– in the House of Commons at 12:00 am on 10 March 1947.

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Mr. De la Bère:

asked the Prime Minister whether, in view of the uncertainty and lack of public information regarding the activities of the European Coal Organisation, he will explain what form of jurisdiction is exercised by the Minister of Fuel and Power, the President of the Board of Trade, or the Minister of Transport in connection with this organisation.

Photo of Mr Clement Attlee Mr Clement Attlee , Stepney Limehouse

The European Coal Organisation was established by an Intergovernmental Agreement in order to promote "the supply and equitable distribution of coal and scarce items of coal-mining supplies and equipment." It is an international Organisation, which operates by making recommendations to Governments. The United Kingdom is represented by an official of the Ministry of Fuel and Power. No form of "jurisdiction" is exercised over the Organisation by any British Government Department. Details regarding the Organisation's constitution were published in Cmd. paper No. 6732 of 1946 and Cmd. paper No. 7041 of 1947, to which I would refer the hon. Member. Publicity is given to the activities of the European Coal Organisation by a weekly Press release which, from time to time, receives considerable attention in the Press.

Mr. De la Bère:

Are we to understand that there is no control of any kind at all by this country over this international body and that there is to be no veto exercised on recommendations to export coal in order to build up a reserve stock for the autumn and winter? This position seems fantastic.

Photo of Mr Clement Attlee Mr Clement Attlee , Stepney Limehouse

I am afraid the hon. Member is mistaken. It is not usual with an inter-governmental organisation that orders should be given to it by one particular Government. It is a matter for international agreement.

Mr. De la Bère:

Is it not a fact that we alone arc the losers and that the rest of the world gains?