Major LLOYD GEORGE(by Private Notice) asked the Secretary for Mines whether he has any information to give the House concerning the disaster which occurred yesterday at the Loveston Colliery, Pembrokeshire.
§ The SECRETARY for MINES (Captain Crookshank)I will, with the hon. Member's permission, circulate in the OFFICIAL REPORT a statement showing the number of coal-cutting and other machines in use during each of the years 1930 to 1935.
§ Following is the statement:
§ Captain CROOKSHANKI regret to inform the House that seven men were drowned yesterday when an inrush of water occurred at the Loveston Colliery, Pembrokeshire. The water quickly rose and is now 150 yards up the 390-yard slant by which the workings are approached. It appears to have reached its maximum height and is being pumped out as quickly as possible. One body has so far been recovered, but it is not expected that it will prove possible to recover the others for several days. A full investigation of the cause of the accident will be made by His Majesty's inspectors as soon as possible. The House will, I feel sure, wish me to take this opportunity of expressing our deep sympathy with the families and friends of those who have lost their lives in these tragic circumstances.
§ Mr. E. J. WILLIAMSWas there any inspection of the colliery before it was re-opened and, if not, why was it not done?
§ Captain CROOKSHANKI shall re. quire notice of any question of that kind. The hon. Member and the House may be interested to know that the Deputy-Chief-Inspector is now at the colliery.