§ 28. Colonel DAYasked the Secretary for Mines if, in view of the prosecution against certain colliery owners charged with obtaining falsely from the Secretary for Mines substantial sums of money during the subvention period by pretending larger sums of money had been paid in wages than were actually paid, any similar cases have been brought to his notice; and, if so, what action is being taken?
§ Colonel LANE FOXProsecutions have been instituted in four cases. Two of the persons concerned have been convicted and two are awaiting trial. If any other similar cases are disclosed, similar action will be taken.
§ Colonel DAYCan the Minister say how much the Government have been defrauded of in these four cases?
§ Colonel LANE FOXNo, Sir; I am afraid I cannot.
§ Mr. PALINGDoes this mean that the workmen in question have received less wages than they ought, to receive?
§ Colonel LANE FOXNo, Sir; it means that an undue amount of subsidy was claimed.