§ 64. Mr. ALED ROBERTSasked the Secretary for Mines whether he can make a statement as to the progress made in the special training of rescue workers to undertake recovery operations at Gresford Colliery; and when these operations are likely to be commenced?
§ Mr. E. BROWNThe necessary intensive training has progressed satisfactorily, and yesterday the seal at the top of one of the shafts was removed by a team of men working inside the airlock and wearing self-contained breathing apparatus. Further work to prepare for the descent of the shaft is now proceeding in a similar way and, though it is impossible to say definitely, it seems likely that a rescue team will make the first descent of the shaft in the course of next week. The work is difficult, and it is most important that it should be done quietly, with the utmost care and deliberation. I make an appeal, therefore, to the public and to the Press not to assemble about the colliery while the work is in progress, and otherwise to save those who are engaged in it from distracting influences. I give an assurance that as the work proceeds full information will be communicated to the Press for publication.