HC Deb 17 July 1933 vol 280 cc1514-5
9. Mr. TOM SMITH

asked the Secretary of State for India the number of mines at work; the average daily num- ber of persons employed; and the total production of coal in British India during 1930, 1931 and 1932, respectively?

Mr. BUTLER

With the hon. Member's permission, I propose to circulate the answer in the OFFICIAL REPORT.

Coal Mines in British India.
— 1930. 1931. 1932.
Number of mines 549 540 Not yet available
Average daily numbers employed 169,001 158,267 Not yet available
Total production of coal Tons 22,683,861(a) 20,314,597(a) 18,719,587(b)
(a) From Chief Inspector's Report.
(b) From Indian Trade Journal.
10. Mr. SMITH

asked the Secretary of State for India how many women were employed underground in coal mines in Bengal, Bihar, Orissa and the Central Provinces, in 1930, 1931 and 1932, respectively?

Mr. BUTLER

The number of women employed underground in coal mines in Bengal, Bihar and Orissa and the Central Provinces, in 1931, was 16,632, as compared with 18,287 in 1930. Figures for 1932 and 1933 are not yet available.

Mr. SMITH

Can the hon. Gentleman say whether the reduction in the number of women employed underground is taking place strictly in accordance with the Regulations made in 1929?

Mr. BUTLER

The hon. Gentleman asks me for the number. I shall be glad to give it if he will put down a question.

Mr. SMITH

Is the hon. Gentleman aware that in 1929 the Governor-General in Council made a Regulation that the reduction in the number of women employed should be progressive, and can he say whether that is being carried out?

Mr. BUTLER

Yes, I consider that is so.