§ 39. Mr. PALINGasked the Secretary for Mines how many collieries who restarted work after the recent stoppage on a 7½-hours day have since reverted to an eight-hours day or have intimated their intention of doing so; and how many men will be affected thereby?
§ Colonel LANE FOXI have not heard of any colliery in any district where a 7½-hour day is in operation having changed to an 8-hour day.
§ Mr. PALINGHas the right hon. Gentleman heard of any company that has given notice of their intention to put the Eight Hour Act into operation?
§ Colonel LANE FOXThe question of the hon. Member was, how many collieries have adopted it? I do not know of one.
§ 40. Mr. PALINGasked the Secretary for Mines how many European countries have, since January this year, instituted a longer working day for coalminers or have given notice of their intention of doing so.
§ Colonel LANE FOXSo far as my information goes no European country has instituted a longer working day for coalminers during the present year nor am I aware that any country has given notice of intention to do so.
§ Mr. MARDY JONESIs the right hon. Gentleman not aware that in France there is a strike looming ahead on this very question at the present time; and is he aware that the coalowners of Germany have intimated their intention to extend the hours as a result of the extension of hours in this country.
§ Colonel LANE FOXI have no information on that.
§ Mr. JONESIs the intention of the Chancellor of the Exchequer to abolish the Mines Department due to the failure of the Secretary for Mines to reply to questions?
§ Colonel LANE FOXI would refer the hon. Member to the Budget speech yesterday.