§ 28. Mr. TINKERasked the Secretary for Mines if he will give the latest figures available for 1931, showing the number of explosions by firedamp in coal mines; the number of deaths caused and the number of non-fatal accidents; and will he give similar figures for 1930?
§ Mr. ISAAC FOOTDuring 1931, 107 persons were killed and 100 injured by 49 explosions of firedamp or coal-dust. The corresponding figures for 1930 were 70 killed and 128 injured by 62 explosions.
§ Mr. PIKEDoes not the Minister for Mines consider that these distressing figures justify an immediate use of automatic gas detectors?
§ Mr. FOOTThere is no evidence which would justify us in coming to that decision. That is a matter for inquiry.
§ Mr. T. WILLIAMSAre the inquiries still proceeding?
§ Mr. FOOTAll the arrangements, as the hon. Member is aware, are in hand and will be carried through as soon as circumstances permit.