71. Mr. RICHARDSONasked the Secretary for Mines if he is aware of the hours of work fixed for boys of from 14 to 18 years of age at some mines in the counties of Northumberland and Durham; that boys descend at 3 a.m. in the first shift and ascend at 3 a.m. in the third shift, and work from 10.30 p.m. to 7 a.m. in a fourth shift; and what action, if any, he proposes to take to prevent the employers fixing such hours for children in mines, especially viewing the fact that boys of that age are protected in other industries?
§ Colonel LANE FOXIf the hon. Member supplies me with particulars of any cases in which it is alleged that the law is being broken, I will have them investigated.
Mr. RICHARDSONI am not saying that the law has been broken, but I am putting to the right hon. Gentleman the conditions which are obtaining at the present time and asking him if he will do anything?
§ Colonel LANE FOXYes, Sir; if the hon. Member will furnish me with full particulars, I will see what can be done.
§ Mr. PALINGWill the right hon. Gentleman undertake to convey this information to the Prime Minister, so that he may reflect upon the results of the Eight Hours Act?