§ 34. Mr. TINKERasked the Secretary for Mines how many mines have been closed down in Lancashire since 1927 and how many during 1933; and how many mine-workers there were in Lancashire in 1927 and how many in 1933?
§ Mr. E. BROWNSince 1st January, 1927, 132 pits in Lancashire have been closed and not re-opened, of which 10 were closed in 1933. The average number of wage-earners on colliery books in Lancashire in 1927 was 89,000, and in 1933, 63,700.
§ 36. Mr. RHYS DAVIESasked the Secretary for Mines the number of coal mines which have gone out of production within each of the urban authorities of Aspull, Blackrod, Hindley, and Westhoughton during the last 10 years up to date; the number of workpeople affected in each case; the number of mines still working; and the number of men still employed?
§ Mr. E. BROWNThe information asked for is being obtained and I will send it to the hon. Member as soon as possible.
§ Mr. DAVIESIn view of the distress which is caused in those areas by the continual closing of coal mines, has the Secretary for Mines any authority to investigate whether any pit can be continued in production and so prevent its closing down?