47. Mr. GORDON MAC DONALDasked the Secretary for Mines if his Department has been informed of the accident at the Park Colliery, Ashton-in-Makerfield, on Wednesday last, which resulted in three deaths; whether he has any knowledge as to the cause of the accident; and, if not, whether he will ask for a detailed report from the Divisional Inspector of Mines on the matter?
§ Mr. E. BROWNI regret to say that there was an extensive fall of roof last Wednesday in a roadway at Park Colliery, Ashton-in-Makerfield, which resulted in the death of three workmen. I have already taken steps to obtain a detailed report in the matter from the Divisional Inspector, and a report of the proceedings at the inquest, which is being held to-day. The House will, I am sure, wish me to take this opportunity of expressing their deep sympathy with the relatives of the deceased.
Mr. MACDONALDWill the Secretary for Mines direct the attention of the local inspector to the work which the men were doing at the time the accident took place, and also to the method of timbering in this kind of working place?
§ in respect of foreign bunker shipments for the years 1928 to 1932 will be found in Table 28 of the 12th Annual Report of the Secretary for Mines, and those for earlier years in previous reports. I will circulate with the OFFICIAL REPORT the details for 1913 and 1933.
§ The information is as follows: