§ 21. Mr. R. McLARENasked the Secretary for Mines if representations have been made to him to compel mine officials above the rank of deputies or firemen and below the rank of first-class certificated managers to have a second-class certificate; and, if so, will he consult the Institution of Mining Engineers before coming to a decision on the matter?
§ Mr. BRIDGEMANThe reply to the first part of the question is in the affirmative. I shall be glad to consider the suggestion made in the second part.
§ Mr. McLARENIs the right hon. Member aware that if he carries this into effect he will compel a large number of men to be deprived of employment, and that these men are good, practical men; and does he mean to suggest that men getting a certificate are better than practical men, even if they have no certificate?
§ Mr. BRIDGEMANAll I suggest is that I should like to consult, as my hon. Friend desires, the Institute of Mining Engineers, and if what he says is correct, no doubt that will be taken into consideration?