57. Mr. HAYDN-JONESasked the Secretary for Mines how many additional joint pit committees have been established at coal mines since the stoppage of 1926; and what proportion of the pits now possess such committees?
§ Colonel LANE FOXI regret that I am not in possession of the information asked for, which could only be obtained by a special inquiry of each colliery, and I do not think that it would be justifiable to put them to this trouble. The hon. Member will recollect that the power under the Mining Industry Act, 1926, to make Regulations in this respect in the case of any mine where reasonable facilities for mutual discussion do not exist does not come into force until two years after the passing of the Act.
§ Mr. R. RICHARDSONDoes the Mines Department take any interest whatever in the proceedings with regard to amalgamation?
§ Mr. SPEAKERThe Minister has already been asked that question.