§ Mr. BRACEasked the Secretary of State for the Home Department whether he can state the terms of the letter or circular of instructions or advice which his Department has issued to His Majesty's mines inspectors in connection with the coming into operation of The Coal Mines (Eight Hours) Act, 1908, c. 57; and whether he will have a copy of such letter or circular placed upon the Table of the House of Commons?
§ Mr. GLADSTONEIt is the rule to treat administrative instructions issued by the Home Secretary to the inspectors as confidential, and I do not think it would be desirable to make an exception to this practice. In the present case the instructions consist merely of directions given to the inspectors with regard to their duties under the Act. A circular has been issued by the inspectors, under my authority, to colliery owners drawing their attention to the action they have to take under the Act. I shall be happy to show the hon. Member a copy of this circular and to lay it on the Table of the House if he desires that that should be done.