HC Deb 14 May 1935 vol 301 cc1527-9
7. Mr. TINKER

asked the Secretary for Mines whether he is aware of the long distance that many of the workmen have to walk underground to the working face; that often this is done in a stooping position because of low roads; and whether he will instruct His Majesty's inspector of mines to make a report to him of the length and height of roadways and the average number of persons who have to travel them, so that this question can be fully examined?

Th SECRETARY for MINES (Mr. Ernest Brown)

I am aware of the position generally, but I should not feel justified in undertaking an elaborate inquiry of the kind suggested. Such an inquiry would take a long time, and I do not appreciate what useful purpose would be served by obtaining such detailed information. The condition of mine roadways is steadily improving, very largely as the result of the extensive use of steel supports.

Mr. TINKER

The hon. Member admits that he knows about the position. Could he not take some more drastic steps than he is doing at the present time? Surely the men are entitled to as good roads as have to be provided where pit-ponies travel?

Mr. BROWN

The question I was asked was whether I would enter upon a very elaborate inquiry, and I have to weigh up the position to see what practical results are likely to accrue, and, as I have said in the answer, I cannot see what results would be obtained by getting the facts which were asked for in the question.

Mr. T. WILLIAMS

Can the hon. Member tell us how many collieries he has been down and what is the maximum distance men have to travel underground?

Mr. BROWN

If the hon. Member will put down that question I will tell him.

Mr. PALING

In view of the development of mechanical means for carrying men underground, would it not be useful to get this information so that we might see how many collieries have adopted this mechanical transport?

Mr. BROWN

The information might be very useful, but there is a lot of information which I have to obtain which involves a tremendous amount of detailed work. In all these cases, I have to weigh the question of what practical results could be expected. In some cases, no doubt, any drastic alterations might mean the entire closing of a mine. Weighing all the circumstances, I have come to the conclusion that I should not be justified in getting all this information.

Mr. GORDON MACDONALD

Will the Minister take such action as will allay this grievance, seeing that the present state of affairs does interfere with the ventilation of collieries?

Mr. BROWN

If the hon. Member has any other proposition to make I shall be glad to consider it.

Lieut.-Colonel HENEAGE

Is it not a fact that when the Labour Government were in office they never troubled to make such an investigation?