HC Deb 20 April 1888 vol 325 c33

In reply to Mr. BURT (Morpeth),

THE SECRETARY or STATE FOR THE HOME DEPARTMENT (Mr.) MATTHEWS) (Birmingham, E.) said

I received a telegram from the Inspector early this morning, to the effect, I regret to say, that 28 lives had been lost, and that 17 bodies were still in the pit, which is being flooded to extinguish the fire. The Inspector is now on his way to the place, which he expects to reach about 4, when he will telegraph again.

MR. ARTHUR O'CONNOR (Donegal, E.)

Can the right hon. Gentleman say whether the accident was caused by the firing of shot?

MR. MATTHEWS

I am not able to say; but I gather not.

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