25. Mr. W. JOSEPH STEWARTasked the Secretary for Mines whether he has considered the report on pit drainage in South-West Durham, prepared by Mr. A. M. Hedley and submitted on 20th July; and whether anything further is being done by the South-West Durham Reconstruction and Development Board and his Department to drain this area, which contains more than 13,000,000 tons of coal?
§ Captain CROOKSHANKI have seen a copy of the report referred to, and I understand that the conclusions and recommendations in the report are receiving the careful consideration of the South-West Durham Reconstruction and Development Board, in co-operation with the Commissioner for the Special Areas. With regard to my own Department, although it possesses certain statutory powers, the support of the majority of the coalowners concerned in any given case must be secured before any effective action can be taken since it is upon them that both the cost of the scheme and the responsibility of working it would fall.
Mr. STEWARTIs it the hon. and gallant Gentleman's intention to get into contact with the people responsible so as to deal with this serious flooding, which is a menace to the surrounding collieries?
§ Captain CROOKSHANKI have said I understand that this report is now receiving the consideration of the people primarily concerned.
§ Mr. LAWSONIs the hon. and gallant Gentleman not aware that this report has been in the hands of the Commissioner for two years?
§ Captain CROOKSHANKNo, I am not aware of that.