§ 29. Mr. D. GRENFELLasked the Secretary for Mines the number of mines in which pit-head baths have been provided; the number without pit-head baths; and the estimated cost of providing suitable pit-head bath accommodation at all mines in the United Kingdom?
§ Mr. E. BROWNAt the end of 1933 159 mines employing about 190,000 wage-earners had been provided with pit-head baths. In addition, building had been commenced or grants made for baths at 48 mines employing about 58,000 wage-earners, making a total of 207 mines with 248,000 wage-earners. There remain some 532,000 wage-earners without pit-head baths. To provide all these with baths, including canteens, would cost between 7½ and 8 million pounds. 1642 The hon. Member will realise, however, that there are a number of cases of small mines, or mines with only a short life ahead, where the construction of pit-head baths would not be a reasonable proposition. Apart from these cases, I estimate that approximately £7,125,000, the total which will be made available during the next 19 years under the Bill now before the House, will be sufficient to complete the programme.
§ Mr. BATEYAs there are 540,000 miners who still need pit-head baths, does the Minister not consider that we should continue the levy and not reduce it?
§ Mr. BROWNNo. There is a big advantage in the present Bill, because, instead of a short period of five years, it makes provision for 20 years and a programme that can be planned ahead. Further, the hon. Member must understand that the technical staff available for the work is limited.
§ Mr. BATEYDoes the Minister suggest that the miners should wait for 20 years before they get pit-head baths?