HC Deb 17 November 1931 vol 259 c658
35. Mr. TINKER

asked the Secretary for Mines if he will consider amending the Mines Act so as to place the boys under 16 years of age working below ground in the same position as boys of the same age working on the surface, so that they shall not be employed between the hours of 9 p.m. and 5 a.m.?

The SECRETARY for MINES (Mr. Isaac Foot)

I do not think it would be wise in present circumstances to add to the difficulties of organisation and the cost of production of coal by the compulsory substitution of adult for boy labour on early and late shifts. I cannot therefore hold out hope of early legislation on this subject.

Mr. TINKER

Is the hon. Gentleman aware that recently, on 24th July a boy was told to go on the night shift, and when his parents objected he was discharged?

Viscountess ASTOR

Will the Minister look into this with fresh eyes? We would like the National Government to do a little better than its predecessor.

Mr. FOOT

Any representations from responsible quarters will receive adequate consideration.