HC Deb 11 April 1921 vol 140 c711
14. Sir A. FELL

asked the Secretary for Mines if he can state up to the latest date available the number of the collieries in Great Britain which have been flooded by water and the number of the men employed in them, and the number of these collieries which are never likely to be opened again and the number of the men employed in them?

Mr. BRIDGEMAN

My information is that some 40 pits which afforded employment to about 16,000 workers are completely flooded. It is impossible to forecast how many of these pits will eventually be worked again; economic considerations as well as the question of practicability are involved.

Sir A. FELL

Is it hoped that there will be no more pits damaged beyond the 40?

Mr. BRIDGEMAN

Yes, certainly, it is hoped so.

Brigadier-General COLVIN

Can the right hon. Gentleman say how many ponies have been destroyed?

Mr. J. JONES

No ponies. A lot of asses have been.