§ 48. Mr. Oliverasked the Secretary for Mines whether his inspectors who intend to visit mines under their charge give notice to the colliery management of their intention; and, if this is the practice, what is the length of notice usually given?
§ The Secretary for Mines (Captain Crookshank)The inspectors of mines do not give notice of their visits of inspection. In the comparatively few cases in which the presence of some person or persons is essential to the purpose of the visit (as, for example, when an accident is to be investigated), short notice, usually not more than a few hours, may be given in order to avoid delay and waste of time.
§ Mr. OliverWill the hon. and gallant Gentleman inquire how it is that the colliery managements are made acquainted with the fact of a contemplated visit by the inspector if notice is not given?
§ Captain CrookshankI cannot imagine how it is. It must be pure guesswork.
§ Mr. OliverDoes the hon. and gallant Gentleman realise that, after answers of that character, the miners of this country have no faith in the inspectors?
§ Captain CrookshankNo, Sir. I am convinced, on the contrary, that the miners have every faith in the inspectors and the way in which they carry out their work.
§ Mr. T. SmithIf notice is not given, is it a case of mental telepathy at work?