HC Deb 29 July 1914 vol 65 c1511

Order for Second Beading read.

Mr. McKENNA

This is a very small Bill. [HON. MEMBERS: "Agreed."] I merely wish to explain that it has been rendered necessary owing to the recent disastrous explosion

Sir A. MARKHAM

I want an explanation of Clause 3 and the first part of the Schedule. What is the meaning of substituting the words "the commencement of this Act" for "the passing of this Act"?

Mr. McKENNA

The Act was passed on the 16th December, 1911, and it commenced on the 1st July, 1912. If my hon. Friend will turn to Section 42, Sub-section 2, to which the Schedule applies, he will see that it says: "For every single mine opened before the passing of this Act there shall be provided two main airways, etc." We now propose to make it in each case the commencement of the Act and not the passing of the Act.

Question, "That the Bill be now read a second time," put, and agreed to.

Bill committed to a Committee of the Whole House for To-morrow (Thursday).—[Mr. McKenna.]