§ 40. Mr. Tinkerasked the Secretary for Mines whether he is aware that the Lancashire and Cheshire Miners' Federation have carried a resolution asking him to have a formal investigation under Section 83 of the Mines Act, 1911, into the cause of the accident at Astley Green Colliery on 6th June, in which five men lost their lives; and will he consider doing this, as it is felt it would give greater satisfaction than having an inquiry under Section 82?
§ Mr. R. S. Hudson (Secretary, Overseas Trade Department)I have been asked to reply. My hon. Friend has received 178 a request to this effect from the Mine-workers' Federation. The procedure under Section 82 of the Act which he had proposed to adopt, would enable a full report to be published much sooner than would be possible under the procedure of Section 83; but if after the inquest is finished it is felt that there are reasons for holding a further public inquiry, he will certainly reconsider the matter. I have been asked to suggest that in the meantime the workers' representatives should bring to the notice of the Divisional Inspector any special aspects of the accident to the investigation of which they attach particular importance.
§ Mr. TinkerWhile I am sorry that the Secretary for Mines is not present, I hope that the right hon. Gentleman will convey to his hon. Friend the serious feelings of the mineworkers with regard to this matter and urge him, if possible, to have a formal inquiry in order to give satisfaction to this great body of men.