§ 11. Mr. TINKERasked the Secretary for Mines the increase in the use of steel supports in mines that has taken place during 1929 and the latest date available for 1930; and can he say if any mine uses steel supports more extensively than timber supports?
§ Mr. SHINWELLThe use of steel supports is developing steadily with encouraging results and is now engaging the active attention of many colliery managements. I am afraid it is hardly possible yet to give any general statistical picture of the position, but there are certainly a number of collieries at which steel is now being used more extensively than timber and a few at which steel is used almost exclusively. A general account of the progress made is given each year in the annual reports of the Inspectors of Mines.
§ Mr. TINKERHas the hon. Gentleman any data to show that steel supports are safer for life and limb than wooden supports?
§ Mr. SHINWELLAs far as experience goes, the assumption is that steel supports are safer, but it is much too early to judge of the actual results.
§ Mr. TINKERCan the hon. Gentleman say if the colliery owners consult with the miners' representatives when they are bringing in the steel supports, as it would lead to a better understanding if that were done?
§ Mr. SHINWELLI think there is a fair amount of co-operation in the districts, but I shall bring that point to the notice of both parties.