§ 33. Mr. Shortasked the Secretary for Mines whether he is aware that Cyril Jobes, aged 14 years and seven months, was fatally injured at the Bentley colliery, Doncaster, on 21st January, and that the accident was due to a moving cage; whether the work upon which he was engaged was suitable for a boy of that age; and whether there was any breach of the Coal Mines Regulations?
§ Captain CrookshankYes, Sir, I am aware of the circumstances of this distressing accident. I understand that the boy's normal work was that of an assistant pony driver, under competent supervision, and in my opinion this was suitable work for a boy. At the time of the accident, however, towards the end of the shift, he had finished his ordinary work and was assisting the onsetter in work which was quite unsuitable. This was done without the permission or knowledge of the responsible officials. I am satisfied that there was a breach of Regulations, and appropriate action has been taken.
§ Mr. T. WilliamsDoes the hon. and gallant Gentleman really think that there is any suitable occupation for a boy of 14 in a coal-mine?