§ 43. Mr. TINKERasked the Secretary for Mines whether he is aware that there is a feeling among the mineworkers that some of the stone-dust used to prevent the danger arising from coal dust is injurious to health; and will he instruct His Majesty's inspectors to pay close attention to the kind of stone-dust used?
§ Captain CROOKSHANKHis Majesty's inspectors of mines are under standing instructions to watch the matter, to investigate all complaints and to take steps to prevent the use of unsuitable materials for stone-dusting. If the hon. Member has particular cases in mind where harmful effects are alleged and will send me details, I will have them fully investigated.
§ Mr. TINKERI will take advantage of that suggestion, Mr. Speaker. May I ask the Minister whether he would instruct his inspectors to take samples of this stone-dust in various colleries, and have reports posted at the pit-head, as other reports are that relate to combustible matters? It would reassure the miners.
§ Mr. D. L. DAVIESWill the Minister have regard to the fact that all the stone-dust utilised is injurious to the workmen, and would he not insist upon his Department seeing that proper ventilation is installed to remove the necessity for this dust?
§ Captain CROOKSHANKI cannot accept the statement that all this dust is injurious to health. [HON. MEMBERS: "It is."] I have no evidence of that.
§ Mr. HARDIETry some.