HC Deb 25 October 1972 vol 843 c308W
Mr. Harold Walker

asked the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry if he will state the minimum qualifications required of candidates for the Inspectorate of Mines and Quarries, the current salary scale for inspectors, and the present strength of the Inspectorate.

Mr. Emery

The Mines Inspectorate comprises three main disciplines: mining, electrical and mechanical engineering. Mining Inspectors must have a first class certificate of competency under the Mines and Quarries Act, 1954, and must for not less than two recent years have been employed as a manager or under manager of any mine under that Act, preferably a coal mine. Electrical and mechanical engineering inspectors must have a degree in mechanical or electrical engineering or be corporate members of the appropriate professional institution, and must for not less than two recent years have had practical experience at coal mines.

The present national salary scale for inspectors is £4,115–£5,350 and the professional strength of the Inspectorate is 116.