§ 47. Mr. COCKSasked the Secretary for Mines whether he can give any information relating to the Hucknall (No. 1) pit, on 11th February, when a collier, named Wiggerton, fell from the cage for 50 feet into the sump; whether the safety gates were in position on this occasion; and, if not, what action he proposes to take?
§ Dr. BURGINI have been asked to reply. I am informed that on 11th February, four rippers, having completed their work on the afternoon shift at Hucknall No. 1 mine, were being raised to the surface, when one of them fell out of the cage into the sump. The onsetter had not put the safety gates in position, and has been dismissed. The management of the mine have also issued a serious warning to all the other onsetters and banksmen that in no circumstances must men be allowed to ride in the cages without gates.
§ Mr. COCKSWill the Minister make further inquiries in this matter, particularly as to the reason why the management should have been condoning this practice and why the officials themselves have been travelling in the cage without the safety gates being adjusted, thus conducing to laxity?
§ Dr. BURGINI will convey those observations to the Minister.
§ Mr. PIKEWill the hon. Gentleman also convey to the Minister the point that if the practice outlined in the hon. Gentleman's question has been carried on, the trade union movement have been very remiss in not bringing the facts to the notice of the authorities?