§ 20. Mr. G. Macdonaldasked the Secretary for Mines whether his attention has been called to the serious concern of the urban district council of Ince-in-Maker-field at the extensive damage caused by 1095 mining operations to a number of comparatively new houses situate in Holt Street, near Rose Bridge Colliery, Ince, and acquired by the occupiers by means of loans; and whether he is prepared to facilitate legislation to bring relief to these persons?
§ Mr. LloydIf the surface on which these houses are built has a right to support or compensation, the owners have a remedy at common law. If they have purchased their property without such rights I am afraid nothing can be done for them unless the Mining Subsidence Bill to which the House has given the Third Reading becomes law in its present form, in which case the houses may come into the category to which a right to repair or compensation is accorded.
§ Mr. MacdonaldIs the hon. Member aware that we entertain some serious misgivings as to whether the Bill referred to will deal with such cases as this, and, if not, will he take further legislative action to provide further protection in this matter?
§ Mr. LloydI cannot give any undertaking as to further legislative action, but I will bear the matter in mind.