§ 63. Mr. GEORGE GREENWOODasked whether the right hon. Gentleman will cause a thorough examination to be made by competent experts of the latest improved type of internal combustion engine, with the view of allowing the introduction of such engines into coal mines in this country where practicable, under Section 58 of the Coal Mines Act, 1911, in substitution for animal haulage, seeing that such engines are now so employed in many gaseous mines in Belgium and other Continental countries?
§ Mr. McKENNAAs my hon. Friend is aware, the question of the use of internal combustion engines below ground in coal mines was considered on the Coal Mines Bill of last Session and the feeling of Parliament was against the use of present types of such engines. In the circumstances, I do not propose to institute suck an inquiry as my hon. Friend suggests, but if improved types should hereafter be produced and particulars are submitted to the Home Office, the question of allowing: their use will of course be carefully considered.