§ Mr. Johnston(by Private Notice) asked the Secretary for Mines whether he has any statement to make regarding the fire which occurred at Dumbreck No. 1 Colliery, Stirlingshire.
§ Captain CrookshankIt is with deep regret that I have to inform the House that on Sunday last nine men lost their lives as the result of a fire in the main haulage road in the Kilsyth Coking Coal Section at Dumbreck Colliery. Nine brushers and firemen were at work in this section, over a mile from the pit bottom. One of the brushers arrived at the pit bottom from the section soon after midday, and on investigation a serious fire was discovered in the main haulage road about 1,000 yards from the pit bottom. The fire was fought vigorously and finally extinguished soon after 3 o'clock on Monday morning. Meantime, rescue 38 teams in breathing apparatus made repeated attempts to get into the section at the return airway, which were unsuccessful till late in the evening. Between half-past nine on Sunday night and 3 o'clock on Monday morning they recovered in turn the bodies of the nine men, who had been killed. Full investigation by His Majesty's Inspectors is now proceeding.
The House will wish me to express our deep sympathy with the families and friends of those who have lost their lives in this tragic accident.