HC Deb 09 June 1943 vol 390 cc708-10
38. Mr. G. Griffiths

asked the Minister of Fuel and Power whether he is aware that at some coalmines when the ventilation fans break down the men continue to work; and whether he will bring in a regulation that will prevent such a practice?

Mr. T. Smith

There was one case of the kind last February, but my right hon. and gallant Friend has not been made aware of any other. The existing law requires that, in so far as any interruption of the ventilation makes it inadequate, persons are not to be employed except to restore the ventilation; and there seems no special need for a further requirement until such time as the law about ventilation can be revised as a whole.

Mr. Griffiths

Does not my hon. Friend understand, being an old miner himself and having worked at the coal face, that if a fan breaks down surely the ventilation is interfered with and that the men should come out of the pit at once? A regulation is required prohibiting any men from being allowed to work in the pit when the fan breaks down. Will my hon. Friend issue that regulation before Whit-sun?

Mr. Smith

I understand the point about ventilation. Section 29 has been the law of the land since 1911. It may be a little ambiguous in its provisions, but there has not been, on the whole, much difficulty with regard to it. In this particular case it has been the subject of a good deal of correspondence. We have pointed out that it cannot be done by Regulation. Whenever we can get legislation dealing with ventilation generally this can be dealt with. In the meantime should any pit stop the ventilation plant, if the Divisional Inspector is informed we will take whatever action is necessary.

Mr. Griffiths

May I ask——

Hon. Members

No.

Mr. Griffiths

Hon. Members know nothing about it. This is vital to the miners; they are risking their lives, and when folk shout "No, no," they know nothing about it. The Joint Parliamentary Secretary understands that this is a very dangerous thing, and it may ultimately cause an explosion at this pit. If a thing of this kind occurs at other places, it will not be "No, no"; Members will be passing votes of sympathy with 'the people who are left.