§ 18. Mr. HANNONasked the Secretary for Mines when he proposes to undertake the experiment of the introduction of gas detectors into certain coal pits; and if he will explain the process by which the proposed practical tests will be carried out?
§ Mr. ISAAC FOOTI have asked the interests directly concerned—including the Mining Association and the Miners' Federation to co-operate in organising and watching thorough pit trials on a working scale with an automatic firedamp detector. It is my hope that the scheme—which will require to be worked out carefully—will be settled by common consent; and discussions to that end will be conducted as speedily as possible.
§ Mr. HANNONIf I put down a question a month hence, will the hon. Member be in a position to answer it?
§ Mr. FOOTJudging from the many questions I have already received I think probably before a month's time I shall be again questioned by other hon. Members. From inquiries I have made, however, I find I cannot arrange to put this experiment into operation until at least three weeks hence.
§ Mr. HANNONWill this result in the possibility of saving life in collieries?
§ Mr. FOOTThat is a question which cannot be discussed by way of question and answer, but, if the hon. Member cares to see me, I will put before him all the information I have.