HC Deb 22 August 1916 vol 85 c2475
Mr. STUART-WORTLEY

May I ask the Minister of Munitions whether he can give the House any information as to the identity of the place in Yorkshire where the explosion took place, which is announced in this morning's papers, and as to the number of lives lost and any other information which, consistent with the public interest, he can give?

Dr. ADDISON

I cannot identify the place. We have not been able to ascertain the cause of the explosion that occurred yesterday evening. Twenty bodies have been recovered up to the present. Considerable destruction has resulted from the explosion, but the casualties have not been as heavy as was at first anticipated.

An HON. MEMBER

All at the one place?

Dr. ADDISON

Yes.

Mr. THORNE

Can the right hon. Gentleman give us the cause, or have they been able to find out?

Dr. ADDISON

We have not been able to ascertain.

Sir W. BYLES

I do not think the House heard where it was?

Dr. ADDISON

I did not say.