§ Mr. ASHLEYasked how many officers and men were killed on His Majesty's ships while coaling was being carried on; and how many were treated for injuries in the sick bay during the last 12 months?
§ Mr. McKENNAThe number asked for in the first part of the question is six during the past 12 months—one at each of the following places: Devonport, Queens-ferry, Ballachulish, Portland, Scapa Flow, Portsmouth. With regard to the second part of the question, coaling accidents are not specified in the Returns from the sick bays.
§ Mr. ASHLEYIn view of the fact that there have been six fatal accidents in the last 12 months at coaling stations at home, and an indefinite number of injuries, can the right hon. Gentleman see his way to issue some regulations by which this alarming state of affairs may be removed?
§ Mr. McKENNAI have examined the cause in each case, and, with the exception of one case, the report was that no person was to blame.
§ Mr. ASHLEYThere is nobody to blame, but is it not owing to the unnecessary competition between ships?
§ Mr. McKENNANo; that has nothing to do with it.
§ Lord BALCARRESWill the right hon. Gentleman inquire if a Return can be made?
§ Mr. McKENNAI can inquire on the point of a possible Return.