§ 10. Mr. Montagueasked the Minister of Labour whether he has considered the circumstance that Henry Robert Hale, of Luard Street, Islington, who was killed in an accident at Heworth Colliery, Durham, would, if he had been directed into the Fighting Forces, have qualified for the payment of a pension to his parents in a similar case; and if he will look into the disadvantageous position of boys directed to the mines in this regard.
§ Mr. BevinMen selected by ballot for service in the coal mines work under the same conditions, and the same rights to compensation apply in respect of injury or death as in the case of other miners. It would not be practicable to apply to these men provisions applicable only to members of H.M. Forces without reconsideration of the whole basis of their employment, and also that of other men who, though liable for military service, are required to remain in, or transfer to, essential civilian work.