HC Deb 19 March 1935 vol 299 cc1010-1W
Sir R. GOWER

asked the Secretary for Mines the number of mines in Scotland employing ponies below ground and the number not employing ponies below ground; also the approximate total tonnage of coal raised in the mines using ponies and in those not using ponies in that area?

Mr. E. BROWN

The information for the year 1934 is as follows:

Mines in Scotland.
Employing horses below ground. Not employing horses below ground.
Number of Mines 81 289
Quantity of Coal raised (Tons). 10,442,000 20,890,000

Sir R. GOWER

asked the Secretary for Mines the number of conveyors and loaders in use below ground in the mines of Scotland in 1934, the percentage of the total output carried by these conveyors; the total number of tons so carried; and the total tonnage transported in tubs drawn by ponies?

Mr. E. BROWN

In 1934, 843 conveyors and 176 gate-end loaders were in use below ground at mines in Scotland. The quantity of coal conveyed was 15,055,000 tons, or 48 per cent. of the total output of coal. Particulars of the quantity of coal transported in tubs drawn by ponies are not available.