HC Deb 04 December 1934 vol 295 c1393
5. Mr. TINKER

asked the Secretary for Mines whether he is aware that it is nine years since the report of the Royal Commission classified the depths of coal seams; will he consider issuing a statement giving the number of mines over 750 yards deep and the number over 1,000 yards deep; and can he give now the depth of the deepest mine and the temperature recorded there at the last visit of His Majesty's inspector?

Mr. E. BROWN

A statistical statement like that published by the Royal Commission could not be prepared without first collecting special returns from all the collieries, and I do not think its value would be likely to justify the labour and expense involved. The depth from the surface of the deepest coal working is about 3,800 feet, and the highest of a series of temperature readings taken there last week by an inspector of mines was 103 degrees Fahrenheit dry bulb and 80 degrees Fahrenheit wet bulb.

Mr. TINKER

Can the hon. Member give the name of the colliery?

Mr. BROWN

I can if the hon. Member will give me notice.