HC Deb 09 March 1933 vol 275 cc1349-50
71. Mr. LAWSON

asked the Secretary for Mines if he can state the number of men and boys who were at work on the last four week-ends ending 26th February in the Snowdown, Betteshanger, and Chislet Collieries, Kent; whether he will give the numbers for each colliery; and whether any worked more than eight hours, and the number, if any?

The SECRETARY for MINES (Mr. Ernest Brown)

I would refer the hon. Member to the answer which I gave yesterday to the hon. Member for Don Valley (Mr. T. Williams) regarding the publication of information relating to individual undertakings. If the hon. Member has reason to think that overtime has been worked illegally at any of these pits, I will have inquiries made.

Mr. LAWSON

Will the hon. Gentleman have inquiries made into this case, and will he give serious attention to the strong complaints made about the only too common overtime that is being worked in the mining areas?

Mr..BROWN

I shall be very glad to consult my hon. Friend on the matter.

Mr. PIKE

Will the Minister refrain from making inquiries until someone makes a definite charge?

Mr. BROWN

That is why I said I would consult with my hon. Friend.