HC Deb 21 March 1906 vol 154 cc371-2
MR. CORY (Cornwall, St. Ives)

I beg to ask the Secretary of States for the Home Department whether the workmen of a colliery, in appointing two persons ߤ See (4) Debates Cliv 196 being practical working miners but not being two of their number, under General Rule 38 of The Goal Mines Regulation Act, 1887, should be required to furnish to the manager of such colliery proof that the two persons so appointed are practical working miners; and, if so, what proof should be given.

* MR. GLADSTONE

I think that in cases where men not working at the colliery are appointed to make an examination under this rule, a manager would be entitled to some proof that they are practical working miners as prescribed by the rule. I do not see why there should be any difficulty in furnishing this proof. The men appointed might, for instance, bring a reference from the manager of the colliery at which they work; or the names of the men and the collieries at which they work might be communicated to the manager beforehand in time to allow him to make inquiry.

MR. T. RICHARDS (Monmouthshire, W.)

was understood to ask if the fact that the men were working in a mine would not be sufficient proof that they were practical workmen.

* MR. GLADSTONE

asked for notice of the Question.