§ 14. Mr. Peter Freemanasked the Minister of Fuel and Power whether he is aware that the provision of electric battery lamps fixed to the horses' collars while at work below ground was compulsory in Canadian mines when horses were used in them; and whether he will make compulsory the use of lamps of this kind in the interests of safety and efficiency in our coal mines.
§ Mr. Geoffrey LloydI do not know the details of the Canadian requirements, but as regards British mines I am advised that any advantage to be derived from the use of horse lamps is more than outweighed by the disadvantages. This advice is confirmed by their increasing unpopularity since they were first used nearly 20 years ago.