§ 55. Mr. J. WARDasked whether the right hon. Gentleman's attention has been called to a trench accident by which three men were killed and others injured by a fall of earth at the works near the Paddington Great Western Railway station; and whether, in view of the fact that it is alleged that the trench was untimbered and other suggestions of serious negligence, he will order a Government inquiry into the cause and circumstances of this accident under the Acts providing for the same?
§ Mr. McKENNAMy attention has been drawn to the case, but the matter is not one that comes within my jurisdiction, as the accident arose in connection with a work of railway construction. The question of holding a special inquiry in regard to it is a matter for the Board of Trade.
§ Mr. J. WARDIn view of the fact that an exactly similar accident happened on Friday at Brighton, can the right hon. Gentleman say whether it is possible to get the Opposition to allow the Departmental Bill dealing with these matters to pass next Session?
§ Mr. McKENNAI know the Bill to which the hon. Member refers, and I can only express the same hope that the Bill may pass as soon as possible.