§ 2. Colonel Ropnerasked the Minister of Fuel and Power in what areas instruction on safety principles in junior classes for boys employed in the coalmining industry is being given; and whether it is his policy to encourage this instruction throughout the mining areas.
§ Mr. GaitskellUnder the Coal Mines (Training) General Regulations, 1945, which came into operation on 1st January, 1947, before a boy can be employed below ground in a coal mine he must be given adequate instruction in safe and efficient methods of work below ground extending over a period of at least 264 hours in all. This instruction is given at training centres operated by the National Coal Board throughout the mining areas.
§ Colonel RopnerIs the Minister satisfied that instruction of this sort is being given on the largest possible practicable scale?
§ Mr. GaitskellYes, Sir. These regulations were drawn up after the most careful consideration.