HC Deb 18 May 1934 vol 289 cc2038-9
6. Mr. TINKER

asked the Secretary for Mines if he is aware that the register kept by the employers for recording the times of lowering and raising the men, in accordance with the Eight Hours Act, is only open for inspection by the inspector of mines; and will he give consideration for the person appointed by the workmen to have the same opportunity for inspection as that given to the inspector of mines?

The SECRETARY for MINES (Mr. Ernest Brown)

I am aware that only His Majesty's Inspectors of Mines have a statutory right to examine these registers, though I believe that in practice managements usually allow the workmen to see them; with regard to the second part of the question, I can only repeat what I told the hon. Member in answer to a similar question by him in July last year, that I will certainly bear his request in mind when an opportunity arises for fresh legislation.

Mr. TINKER

Seeing that this is the law, that the employés have this right, would it not be to the advantage of both sides to allow it? I believe there are only a few cases where it is not done.

Mr. BROWN

I will bear that point in mind. I understand that there are very few cases.

Mr. DAVID DAVIES

Are not the men appointed under Section 16 of the Coal Mines Act given the same authority to inspect these books as the mines inspectors appointed by the Department?

Mr. BROWN

I think that is so, but I would prefer to have notice of the question.

Mr. D. GRENFELL

Is there not a specific right on the part of the men appointed under Section 2 of the original Act of 1908 to inspect the books, and cannot general powers be given for them to do so?

Mr. BROWN

I have already said that when an opportunity arises for fresh legislation I will bear the point in mind.