§ 49. Mr. J. Griffithsasked the Lord President of the Council whether he can make any statement in reference to the proposed investigation into the incidence of silicosis among anthracite miners in South Wales; and whether he can indicate on what lines the investigation will be carried out?
§ The Chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster (Earl Winterton)I have been asked to reply. The investigation organised by the Medical Research Council into silicosis and allied conditions among coal-miners is already in progress. It is beginning with an intensive study of a particular anthracite pit, selected as the result of a preliminary survey. Clinical and radiological examinations are being made of a large number of mineworkers, and the occupational histories of these men are being recorded. Parallel investigations are to be made by appropriate experts into the geological and other physical conditions of the colliery.