§ Mr. CARLILE (for Sir William Bull)asked the Home Secretary whether he has received information that certain seams have been closed owing to the effects of the Mines (Eight Hours) Act; if so, whether he can say what mines these are, and how many men have been thrown out of employment owing to the closing of these mines?
§ Mr. CHURCHILLI have received no information to this effect, but I will make inquiry of the inspectors of mines.
§ Mr. CARLILEHow soon is the information likely to be available, or should another question be put down?
§ Mr. CHURCHILLI do not know. It is the first inquiry I have addressed to the Inspector of Mines, and I do not know how long it takes to get an answer, but I will consider the matter. Perhaps the hon. Gentleman will put a question later on.
§ Mr. BARNESWhile making inquiries will the right hon. Gentleman include the further inquiry how many mines there are where, owing to the reduced hours of labour, there has been an increased number of men employed?
§ Mr. CHURCHILLIt is certainly desirable that this should be included in any inquiry.
§ Mr. WEDGWOODWill the right hon. Gentleman also include in his inquiry the question as to the number of mines which are closed because as soon as they are closed the owners are exempted from rates and taxes?