§ 12. Mr. R. J. Taylorasked the Secretary for Mines, whether he. is aware that though the miners in Northumberland decided to work on Whit Monday the Choppington Coal Company refused to allow the men at three collieries to work on that day; and what steps he proposes to take to prevent a repetition of this action?
§ Mr. GrenfellI am aware that these three pits were idle for one day during the week ended 7th June. I am in communication with the colliery company in the matter, and will let the hon. Member know the result.
§ Mr. TaylorAs the Minister is aware, when a man avoidably loses a day under the bonus system he loses 6s. for that week. In making his inquiry, should he not determine what the penalty should be for a company which deliberately makes 1,500 men idle and loses 2,000 tons of coal in one day?
§ Mr. GrenfellAll I can say is that I am making my inquiries. I very much deplore the fact that when men offer themselves for work an employer does not give them the chance.
§ Mr. J. GriffithsShould not steps be taken to compel a company to work its pits?
§ Mr. MathersWill the Minister put the House in possession of the facts when he has them?
§ Mr. GrenfellYes, I will do that if the House desires me to do so.