asked the Lord President of the Council whether the report of the Medical Research Committee who have examined the men who dig and handle coal is now available or when will it be available; and whether the findings will secure to the men affected compensation during disablement and to their dependants in case of death?

The report by a committee of the Medical Research Council, dealing with the medical aspects of silicosis and other forms of chronic pulmonary disease among coalminers, was published by His Majesty's Stationery Office on the 16th May. The recommendations include one to the effect that the present definition of the disability for which compensation can be claimed should be widened. Any administrative action to be taken on the basis of this recommendation is a matter for the Secretary of State for the Home Department.