HC Deb 08 April 1930 vol 237 cc1965-7
Mr. R. RICHARDSON

I have handed in a Private Notice Question with respect to an accident at the Lady Beatrice Pit, New Herrington, County Durham. [HON. MEMBERS: "We cannot hear a word!"] I have to address Mr. Speaker, and I am sorry if hon. Members cannot hear me. I handed in the notice as early as possible after I knew of the accident, but I have not had any reply. I should be glad if you could tell me why a reply has not been given.

Mr. SPEAKER

With regard to Private Notice Questions, I have to exercise my discretion, under certain Rules; otherwise, I might be invaded with such questions, and I should have no pretext for refusing them. In this instance, I understand that the accident occurred last Friday, and a question in regard to it might have been asked yesterday. Moreover, I understand that an inquiry is going on in regard to the accident, and it would be premature for the Government to give any answer as to the cause of it.

Mr. RICHARDSON

I understand that the Press have given an account as to how the accident occurred, and I should like to know whether their account is correct? May I ask the Secretary for Mines whether he has received any report from his inspector on this accident?

Mr. TURNER

We are awaiting a report from the inspector, and I can add nothing to the accounts in the newspapers.

Mr. RICHARDSON

Will the Secretary for Mines tell me when I may put a question in order to ascertain the truth of the matter?

Mr. TURNER

To-morrow.

Mr. TINNE

I desire again to ask for your Ruling and guidance, Mr. Speaker, in regard to the question which I put to you on the question of the hon. Member for Southwark (Mr. Day) to the Secretary of State for War. That question appears to have been calculated' to arouse prejudice against a body which is now giving evidence before a Select Committee of this House, and I would ask whether you still hold that it was a proper thing to have done?

Mr. SPEAKER

Perhaps I did not make it clear in my reply to the hon. Member in the first instance, but, obviously, it must be the case that it is improper to ask questions in regard to matters which are at the moment under inquiry by a Select Committee.