§ 44. Mr. TINKERasked the Secretary for Mines if he is in a position to make a statement on the investigations now being made at Gresford Colliery, and if the officials of the North Wales miners or the officials of the Miners' Federation have been invited to be present when the reports of the examinations below ground have been made?
§ Mr. E. BROWNThe operations have not reached the stage at which investigations can be made, and they are still directed to the building and tightening of a system of stoppings close to the shafts. The participation of the workmen's representatives was invited at the outset when the plans for the work were being prepared, and since the work was started they have had and continue to have full facilities to be at the colliery and to discuss developments.
§ Mr. TINKERBefore any decision is arrived at regarding this mine, will the hon. Gentleman call in the representatives of the Miners' Federation, as the prevailing opinion appears to be that the mine might be closed without their sanction, and they want to know before anything is done?
§ Mr. BROWNI do not know how that opinion has arisen. The co-operation of the officials of the federation has been welcomed from the beginning and will continue tó be welcomed.