HC Deb 30 May 1935 vol 302 c1302
68. Mr. LUNN

asked the Secretary for Mines the total number of ponies in coal mines in 1913 and 1934, respectively, and the total number of pony drivers killed or injured in each of those years?

The SECRETARY for MINES(Mr. Ernest Brown)

In 1913, 73,024 ponies were employed in coal mines and, so far as information is available, 82 pony-drivers were killed. The corresponding figures for 1934 were 37,751 and 34. Particulars of the number of pony-drivers injured in these years are not available.

Mr. LUNN

In view of the safety first proposals in mines will the Secretary for Mines call the attention of His Majesty's Inspectors to the matter so that better facilities may be provided for pony-drivers to do their work and prevent further loss of life?

Mr. BROWN

I will consider that.

Mr. G. NICHOLSON

How many pony-drivers were killed through head injuries?

Mr. BROWN

I will try to get the information if the hon. Member will put down a question.