§ 7. Mr. Tinkerasked the Secretary for Mines whether his attention has been drawn to a fatal accident which happened at Mosley Common No. 4 pit, Manchester collieries, on 31st October, when it was stated in the evidence at the inquest that the working-place where the accident took place was in a dangerous condition; and will he have a full investigation made?
§ Mr. GrenfellI have read the report of the inspector who investigated the accident and attended the inquest and the newspaper report of the inquest which my hon. Friend was good enough to send me. It was well recognised by both officials and workmen that the roof at the top end of the face needed special support, and, as stated at the inquest, this was in fact provided and particular care taken; but a small fall knocked out one of the supports and this brought down a larger fall which caught the deceased. This could hardly have been foreseen, and I find no evidence to indicate that before the accident the place was unfit to work in; but I have given instructions for a review of the system of support in order, if possible, to provide greater security from the risk of a breakdown in the system of roof support in this mine.
§ Mr. TinkerWill the Minister also investigate the question of the conveyor? I understand that the noise of the conveyor along the face was such that the break in the roof could not be detected. Would not the use of rubber conveyors help to avoid such accidents?
§ Mr. GrenfellAll relevant considerations will be submitted in the investigation.