§ 33. Mr. CLARRYasked the Secretary for Mines whether there are any restrictions or formalities in connection with the Ministry with regard to the working of two shifts below ground per 24-hour day?
§ The SECRETARY for MINES(Colonel Lane-Fox)There are no rules or restrictions which are special to working on a two-shift system by a colliery, though it is, of course, illegal for a workman ordinarily to be underground for more than seven hours in any one day.
§ Mr. MARDY JONESIs the Secretary for Mines aware that the miners have a rooted objection to working a double shift, because it disturbs their home Life, more especially under existing conditions when there is a shortage of houses?
§ Colonel LANE-FOXThat is not the question put to me.
§ Mr. BATEYIs the hon. and gallant Gentleman aware that it is quite a common practice to work, not two shifts, but three and four shifts in the North of England?
§ Colonel LANE-FOXThat does not arise.