§ 15. Mr. DAVID DAVIESasked the Secretary for Mines whether it is the intention of his Department to introduce a new Mines Bill, or regulations to make provision for increasing the safety of the mine workers, in view of the greatly increased use of mechanical appliances?
Mr. BROWNI cannot make any statement at present regarding the introduction of amending legislation. As regards regulations, the hon. Member will be aware that new regulations and orders have been made from time to time, that it is only a few months since new regulations were made to secure improved lighting, and that proposed regulations for the provision of firedamp detectors are about to be published. Other matters in respect of which new regulations may be required, or existing regulations may need revision, receive constant attention.
§ Mr. DAVIESIs the Minister aware that the stone dust regulations need to be brought up-to-date, and that in the last report the Chief Inspector of Mines drew the attention of the Department to the fact that stone dusting is not compulsory in the places where stone dust is most dangerous?
§ Mr. T. SMITHAre we to take it that the negotiations are completed?