§ 73 and 74. Mr. Parkerasked the Secretary for Mines (1) whether, in view of the scarcity of labour in coal mines, he will take steps to re-employ partially-incapacitated nystagmic workers or such workers who have recovered from nystagmus, either underground, on the surface or in light work connected with mining establishments, taking into consideration the findings and recommendations of the Report of the Departmental Committee on 1502 certain questions arising under the Workmen's Compensation Acts?
(2) whether he is aware that, according to the returns made by the colliery companies in September 1936, 56.9 per cent. of miners partially incapacitated by nystagmus had no work; what is the present percentage; and whether he will take steps to try to reduce it?
§ Mr. GrenfellI am aware of the figures given in the report of the Departmental Committee in question. Up to date figures for comparison are not available, but the number of cases of nystagmus, both new and continued, fell between 1936 and 1938. Arrangements have been made for the cases of unemployed coal miners to be considered locally by panels consisting of a representative of the Ministry of Labour together with one from each side of the industry, with medical advice when necessary. These panels will decide whether a man is fitted physically for work in or about a coal mine. If so, he will be offered such employment; otherwise, the Ministry of Labour will endeavour to place him in another industry.