HC Deb 03 May 1938 vol 335 c686
20. Mr. Tinker

asked the Secretary for Mines whether his attention has been drawn to a shot-firing accident at Astley Green Collieries, near Manchester, on the morning of 25th April, in which four workmen were injured; whether his inspectors have investigated the cause; and, if so, at what conclusions have they arrived?

The Secretary for Mines (Captain Crookshank)

Yes, Sir. I have received a preliminary report on this accident, and I am glad to say that none of the four men appears to have been seriously injured. The accident has been investigated by His Majesty's inspectors, and it appears from their reports that the accident was caused by an explosion of firedamp ignited in the course of shot-firing operations in a tunnel being driven between two seams. The source of the ignition is still under investigation.

Mr. Tinker

If I put a question down in, say, a fortnight's time, will the hon. Member be in a position to answer it then?

Captain Crookshank

Perhaps the hon. Member will consult me, and I will let him know.

Mr. Crossley

Is there to be a further report?

Captain Crookshank

The hon. Gentleman is, apparently, going to ask another question.