HC Deb 26 February 1932 vol 262 cc719-20W
Mr. T. WILLIAMS

asked the Secretary for Mines how many horses or ponies were killed or injured as a result of explosions underground in coal mines during each of the last five years?

Mr. ISAAC FOOT

I regret that exact figures cannot be given, but from such records as are available the total number during the five years appears to be four.

Mr. T. WILLIAMS

asked the Secretary for Mines whether he obtains an annual record of injuries received by horses or ponies while underground, other than injuries received during working hours; how many horses received veterinary attention for such injuries during each of the last five years; and will he include such figures in the annual reports published by his Department?

Mr. FOOT

The annual returns of casualties to horses and ponies in mines include injuries received out of working hours, but do not show them separately; and I do not consider that I should be justified in adding to the already large number of records which mine owners are required to keep to enable them to furnish statistical information.