§ 15. Mr. TINKERasked the Secretary for Mines whether he is aware of the complaints of miners about the noise caused by iron conveyors on the coal face; and whether it is the intention of the coal owners to gradually substitute rubber belting which is more suitable?
§ Mr. E. BROWNI have from time to time received representations as to the prejudicial effect of excessive noise on the safety and well-being of underground workmen, and it is certainly desirable that everything possible should be done to mitigate it. I am glad to be able to say, therefore, that the use of belt-conveyors, which is already extensive, is rapidly expanding, owing to the constructional improvements effected in recent years, and that this tendency may be confidently expected to continue.