§ 44. Mr. Leslieasked the Minister of Fuel and Power whether he is aware that certain coal pits in Durham are waterlogged and coal essential to the national needs is thereby not available; and what action does he propose taking to deal with the situation?
§ The Minister of Fuel and Power (Major Lloyd George)The waterlogged pits in South West Durham have been closed for many years, and the equipment has been removed from them. The reopening of these pits would be a major and long-term operation. I cannot agree that it would be in the national interest to initiate action on these lines at the present time, when the primary need is for the most effective use of the existing manpower.
§ Mr. LeslieIs the Minister aware that local miners formerly employed at these pits have now to travel long distances to other pits, sometimes as much as 12 miles, and that if these pits could be reopened, it would save transport, time, and coal at present being wasted?
§ Commander Locker-LampsonWhat would it cost to reopen them?