The Mines and Quarries Acts 1954 to 1971 (Repeals and Modifications) Regulations 1974

EXPLANATORY NOTE

These Regulations contain repeals and modifications of the Mines and Quarries Acts 1954 to 1971 and certain instruments thereunder. They are made in consequence of the establishment on 1st January 1975 of the Health and Safety Executive and the coming into operation on that date of provisions of the Health and Safety at Work etc. Act 1974 which supersede or affect provisions of the 1954 to 1971 Acts and instruments thereunder.

The Regulations therefore—

(a)transfer certain powers under the 1954 to 1971 Acts connected with the enforcement of those Acts from the Secretary of State to the Health and Safety Executive or, in the case of powers relating to the Mining Qualifications Board, to the Health and Safety Commission;

(b)transfer the functions of inspectors appointed under the 1954 Act to inspectors appointed by the Health and Safety Executive under the 1974 Act;

(c)apply, with certain exceptions, to offences under the 1954 to 1971 Acts committed after 1st January 1975, the penalties prescribed in the 1974 Act;

(d)repeal or modify powers and provisions which are superseded or affected by powers and provisions contained in the 1974 Act, including in particular—

(i)powers to make regulations and other instruments;

(ii)powers of inspectors;

(iii)provisions relating to investigations and inquiries;

(iv)provisions relating to certain offences, penalties and legal proceedings; and

(e)apply certain provisions of the 1954 to 1971 Acts to health and safety regulations under the 1974 Act relating to mines and quarries.