§ Mr. JOHN(by Private Notice) asked the Secretary for Mines, in relation to the recent serious explosion at Llwynyria Colliery, whether, having regard to the inspection made last Sunday and to the resumption of the inquest proceedings tomorrow, he can state to-day whether or not he will direct the holding of a formal investigation under Section 83 of the Coal. Mines Act, 1911?
§ Mr. ISAAC FOOTAfter full consideration of the circumstances relating to this grievous disaster, I have decided that there are special circumstances which make a formal investigation desirable; and I am giving directions accordingly.
Lieut.-Colonel WATTS-MORGANHaving regard to the unfortunate results 655 involved by this disaster, may I ask whether the inquiry will be held by a special Commissioner or will it be conducted by the Chief Inspector of Mines for the district?
§ Mr. FOOTThe inquiry will take the ordinary form, and I assume that His Majesty's Chief Inspector will preside.
§ Mr. T. WILLIAMSWill there be an opportunity of considering the advisability of changing the course of the inquiry so that a judicial man may be in the chair?
§ Mr. FOOTThat question might be dealt with subsequently. I think it would be better that the inquiry should be conducted under ordinary conditions.