§ 56. Major KELLEYasked the Secretary for Mines whether he proposes to make any new Regulations governing the use of electric or other safety lamps in mines; and whether his Department has conducted any research into the possibility of providing the miner with a gas-mask efficient against choke-damp and to be kept in the working place?
§ The SECRETARY for MINES (Mr. Bridgeman)No fresh Regulations governing the use underground of safety lamps are contemplated at the moment. I am awaiting recommendations in the matter from the Miners' Lamps Committee. As regards danger from choke-damp I am advised that flame safety lamps or open lights (where used) give sufficient warning to enable the miner to withdraw in safety. The electric safety lamp, however, can give no warning of the presence of inflammable or noxious gases, and the question what steps should be taken to provide safeguards in the general use of electric lamps by the workmen in a mine is now under consideration by the Miners' Lamps Committee. I will bring the hon. Member's suggestion to their notice.