§ 1. Mr. Tinkerasked the Secretary for Mines whether he is aware that the closing down of the Westhoughton collieries and the abandonment of pumping operations is causing the water to reach close to the top of the shaft, and this is causing apprehension to the workmen in the adjoining collieries who realise the danger of this accumulation; and whether he will instruct His Majesty's inspectors to examine and make a report upon it?
§ The Secretary for Mines (Captain Crookshank)I have had a report on the position at Westhoughton and adjoining collieries. Although the level of the water at Westhoughton Collieries has risen during recent months and is still rising, it appears that there is no likelihood of any other mine being seriously affected for some considerable period, and that at present there need be no cause for apprehension as to the safety of persons employed. The position is being closely watched by His Majesty's Inspector of Mines and the officials of the collieries in the neighbourhood.
§ Mr. TinkerWhile I appreciate the answer that the hon. and gallant Gentleman has given me, I trust that he will keep a careful watch on the position, as 861 there is great feeling among men working in adjoining collieries. They, as well as men working in Westhoughton, realise what it means, and it would be well if their fears were allayed. I hope that the Minister will watch this matter closely.
§ Captain CrookshankYes, Sir; as I said, the position is being closely watched. I may add that it will be closely watched in the future.
§ Mr. Rhys DaviesCould not the hon. and gallant Gentleman put it a bit better than that? Is it not possible to get these colliery companies to agree to establish a co-operative pumping scheme? Is not the hon. and gallant Gentleman aware that some of these companies whose pits are flooded are spending more upon legal charges in the High Court now than would make their pits safe?