HC Deb 08 April 1935 vol 300 cc797-8
49. Mr. T. SMITH

asked the Secretary for Mines whether his attention has been drawn to the decision of the Court of Appeal with regard to the case of the Consett Iron Company, Limited, v. Clavering; and, if so, whether he contemplates taking any action to amend the Mining Industry Act, 1926?

The SECRETARY for MINES (Mr. Ernest Brown)

The answer to the first part of the question is "Yes." With regard to the second part, all I can say at the moment is that the position is being carefully considered.

Mr. SMITH

Can the hon. Gentleman say whether any representations have been made to him on this subject?

Mr. BROWN

Yes.

Mr. DICKIE

Having regard to the fact that the Act of 1926 was expressly passed for the purpose of dealing with cases of this kind, and that this extraordinary decision completely nullifies that Act, can we have an assurance that there will be no avoidable delay in introducing amending legislation?

Mr. BROWN

I have already said that the matter is being carefully considered. More than that I cannot say now.

Mr. SMITH

Are we to take it that in the near future the hon. Gentleman intends to make a full statement on the matter?

Mr. BROWN

As soon as I am able to do so.

Mr. DICKIE

May we take it that some such legislation will be introduced during this Session?

Mr. BROWN

I have said that I cannot add anything to the answer.