§ 83. Mr. MANDERasked the Secretary for Mines if he is aware of the danger 2466 to the use of Cannock Chase as a national park caused by the recent commencement of coal boring on the top of Brindley Heath in the centre of the Chase; and if he is prepared to approach the coalowners with a view to the adoption of an alternative boring?
§ Mr. SHINWELLI understand, on inquiry, that the work in question is only of an exploratory nature, and that, as soon as the position of the seams is determined, the boring apparatus will be removed. There does not appear to be any question of permanent damage to the amenities of the Chase, or any other reasonable method of determining the position of the seams at this point.
§ Mr. MANDERIs the hon. Gentleman aware of the great importance of this matter to the workers in the Midlands; and will he keep a careful watch over it?
§ Mr. SHINWELLI understand that the hon. Member desires that no shafts should be sunk at this point, and that is precisely what I am anxious to ensure.