§ 23. Mr. E. Dunnasked the Secretary for Mines whether he proposes to amend the regulations relating to stone-dusting in mines consequent upon the disturbing comments made on the present stone-dusting regulations in recent mining disasters; and, if so, when they may be expected?
§ Captain CrookshankYes, Sir. Draft general regulations, in which are included important amendments relating to precautions against coal dust have been communicated to the principal representative bodies of the industry for their observations. This action is being, of course, taken as a matter of urgency without prejudice to any recommendations that the Royal Commission may make on this subject.
§ Mr. DunnAre we to take it that the Minister is awaiting the result of the consideration of this matter by the respective organisations? Is that where we stand now?
§ Captain CrookshankYes, Sir. The practice when new regulations are about 162 to be introduced is to take the informal observations of the bodies concerned, before taking the formal steps required by law.
§ Mr. DunnMay I, in view of the disturbed state of the miners of this country on this important question, ask whether that has already been done?
§ Captain CrookshankI am afraid the hon. Gentleman did not take up what I said in my answer. I said that these draft general regulations had been communicated to the bodies concerned for their observations.
§ Captain CrookshankNot without notice.