§ 1. Mr. T. SMITHasked the Secretary for Mines whether he is aware that the Chislet Colliery Company, Kent, are 1456 attempting to enforce the use of naked lights underground, and that a ballot of the workmen concerned has resulted in an overwhelming majority against this proposal; and whether, in view of the desire of the workmen to be protected by the use of safety lamps, he proposes to take any action in the matter?
§ The SECRETARY for MINES (Mr. Ernest Brown)I am aware that a number of acetylene lamps have been installed in Chislet Colliery. I am also aware of the result of the recent ballot of the workmen taken on the basis of a single answer to two questions, namely, whether or not they were in favour of the use of naked lights in the mine and also of paying the cost of upkeep. I have no power to enforce the use of safety lamps except under the conditions set out in Section 32 of the Coal Mines Act, 1911, and, after careful investigation by His Majesty's inspectors, I am not in a position to maintain that any of them applies to this mine at present.
§ Mr. SMITHCan the Minister say whether, in view of the ballot, which was ten to one against the use of naked lights, the colliery company intend to take any further action?
§ Mr. BROWNI cannot say at the moment. I shall be very pleased to discuss the matter with my hon. Friend.