§ SIR EARDLEY WILMOTasked the Secretary of State for the Home Department, Whether, in view of the serious casualties constantly occurring in mines, and of the defective organisation existing for the rescue of sufferers in those disasters, he will give favourable consideration to the plan proposed by Mr. Alan Bagot, in a pamphlet published by him, for the establishment of life brigades in each mining district; and, whether he will, through the mining inspectors, submit Mr. Bagot's scheme to the proprietors of mines, with a view to an examination of its feasibility, and its general adoption if found feasible?
§ MR. HIBBERTSir, the pamphlet apparently referred to by the hon. Member has not been brought to the notice of the Secretary of State; but it was laid before the Royal Commissioners for Accidents in Mines, and they had the further advantage of examining Mr. Bagot personally in reference thereto. The Commissioners have not seen their way, apparently, to make any recommendation in regard to Mr. Bagot's proposals. The system which they viewed with most favour was the establishment of life-saving stations and rescue parties in connection with the Fleuss apparatus; and circulars have been issued by the Inspectors to the various owners throughout the country, commending the subject to their particular notice. Perhaps the hon. Member would like to have a copy of the circular and memorandum referred to?