The Marquess of Londonderrysaid, that he was desirous of putting a question to the noble Duke near him (the Duke of Wellington). He wished to ask whether it would be convenient that he should now move for the Report of Mr. Faraday 1050 and Mr. Lyall, who had been sent down by the Government to report on the subject of the explosions which had unfortunately taken place in certain coal mines in the north of England some short time ago? Many rumours had been circulated detrimental to the character of the coalowners, and he wished for the production of this Report, as it would prove that those rumours were without foundation, and also the great attention and ability which were shown by the viewers employed in those collieries.
§ The Duke of WellingtonThe Government having received an account of these misfortunes having occurred in one of the mines in the north of England, sent down two gentlemen of great science, who were directed to inquire and examine into the cause of this and similar misfortunes which had previously occurred, and they were also directed to make a Report on the subject. They made a Report, and that Report has since been communicated to the gentlemen interested—the coalowners of the north of England; and they, having considered the subject, have stated their opinions on the Report of the two scientific gentlemen; opinions suggested by their own knowledge and practical experience. These opinions have been communicated to the two scientific gentlemen, and the Government is desirous of wailing to hear the Report of these gentlemen upon the suggestions made by the coalowners before that document is made public. I agree with my noble Friend that it is desirable that these Papers should come before the public, and that they should be eventually placed on the Tables of both Houses of Parliament. Therefore, there can be no objection whatever to the production of this Paper at the proper time; but I think the noble Marquess will agree with me, and your Lordships will, that the information should be as complete as possible when given. Under these circumstances, I must suggest, to my noble Friend that it would be better if he postponed his Motion for the present.
The Marquess of Londonderrysaid, that nothing could be more satisfactory than the explanation which had been given by the noble Duke. He must thank the Government for having sent down these scientific gentlemen to inquire into the subject, for they had produced a Report which was most just and impartial, and 1051 which gave the greatest satisfaction to all the parties interested. He must also thank the Government for having taken off the tax on coal exported to foreign countries. That measure would be a great relief to the trade. He regretted that the pitmen still stood out, but they were urged to do so by persons who ought to know better. Designing demagogues had set these men against their masters, and they would have a great deal to answer for, if they could but see the misery and wretchedness which he had seen in that part of the country during the last six months.