§ Sir R. GOWERasked the Secretary for Mines whether he has had further reports in regard to the utility of the experimental electric battery lamps fixed to the harness of the horses below ground; whether these lamps enable the horses to work with greater confidence and tend to reduce the liability to accidents; and whether he hopes to be able to issue recommendations as to their more general adoption in the near future?
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§ Mr. E. BROWNThree types of pony lamps have been approved as safe for use in mines and a fourth type is about to be approved. The inspectors of mines are using their influence to encourage the more extended trial of such lamps, but further practical experience is necessary before it can be decided how far their general adoption would be desirable. The reports so far received, however, are favourable to the view that such lamps may assist in the reduction of accidents both to horses and drivers.
Inspection Division. June, 1932. 1922. Number of Horses and Ponies employed below ground at 30th June. Number of Horses and Ponies employed per million tons at coal raised. Number of Horses and Ponies employed below ground at 31st December. Number of Horses and Ponies employed per million tons at coal raised. Scotland 1,159 40 3,810 107 Northern 14,861 336 21,159 421 Yorkshire 5,967 147 8,346 198 North Midland 6,771 222 8,632 281 North Western 726 32 1,862 71 Cardiff and Forest of Dean. 6,666 242 16,749 326 Swansea 3,292 310 Midland and Southern 2,322 164 3,263 246 Total 41.764 190 63,821 256 The reduction in the number of horses and ponies is partly a result of the increased use of mechanical haulage and conveyors and partly a result of the contraction of the industry.