HC Deb 02 March 1939 vol 344 cc1443-4
96. Mr. W. Joseph Stewart

asked the Minister of Labour whether any scheme is now in operation with a view to draining the waterlogged coal measures in Southwest Durham; and what progress has been made in the matter up to date?

Mr. E. Brown

The answer to the first part of the question is No. As regards the second part, my hon. Friend the Secretary for Mines explained to the hon. Member on 29th November that an effective scheme could be devised only with the co-operation of at least a majority of the coalowners concerned, and I have no information as to the result of the discussions which were then taking place.

Mr. Lawson

Has not a committee been dealing with waterlogged mines? Has not the Commissioner for the Special Areas been dealing with the question for a long time now? Is nothing to be done?

Mr. Brown

I should like to have notice about that.