§ 63. Mr. TRAINasked the Secretary for Mines whether his attention has been drawn to the approaching closing of certain collieries in the Lower and Middle Wards of Lanarkshire; and what steps he proposes to take to prevent the consequent flooding and closing of other pits in the area?
§ Mr. SHINWELLMy attention has been drawn to the possible cessation of 1154 pumping operations at certain collieries in this area, but I am advised that no question of safety arises at the present time. The possibility of introducing a co-operative pumping scheme to deal with the situation that may arise is a matter, in the first instance at any rate, for the consideration of the owners of adjacent collieries, and I understand that discussions between them are being held.
§ Mr. TRAINIf I send the hon. Member particulars of this case, will he take steps to avoid these pits being flooded, as they are likely to be, with the result that 500 miners may be thrown out of work?
§ Mr. SHINWELLI shall be happy to receive information from the hon. Member, but I can assure him that full details are in our possession.