§ 38. Mr. W. J. BROWNasked the Secretary for Mines how many boys of 16 years of age or under are employed in driving ponies underground; and whether he will seek powers to ensure that persons in 267 charge of animals in mines should be over the age of 16 and adequately trained for the work?
§ The SECRETARY for MINES (Mr. Shinwell)I regret that the information asked for in the first part of the question is not available. With regard to the second part, so long as the law allows boys below 16 years of age to be employed underground, it is not possible to prohibit their employment in driving ponies. The question of training I will deal with in the answer to my hon. Friend's next question.