§ Mr. Collindridge(by Private Notice) asked the Minister of Fuel and Power whether he has any information to give the House on the explosion which occurred at Mottram Wood Colliery Barnsley on Saturday, 10th April, 1943.
Major Lloyd GeorgeI regret to inform the House that three men lost their lives in an explosion of firedamp which occurred about 9.30 a.m. on Saturday last at Mottram Wood Colliery, a small adit mine near Barnsley. The explosion occurred in an unoccupied coal face shortly after the three men had gone there to dismantle a conveyor. Owing to a fall of roof and derangement of the ventilation, it has not yet been possible for my inspector to ascertain the cause of the explosion, but full investigation will be made as speedily as possible. Meanwhile, I feel sure the House will wish to be associated with me in expressing deep sympathy with the relatives and friends of the three men who were killed.
§ Sir Percy HurdCan the right hon. and gallant Gentleman say what progress is being made with the investigations for the purpose of boring to deal with firedamp behind the coal face, and into experiments carried out in the United States?
§ Sir P. HurdDid not the Minister promise me some months ago that he would make inquiries into the matter in the United States of America?
Major Lloyd GeorgeNo, Sir, I think my hon. Friend is under a misapprehension. It was a question of using gas from the face direct, and I said I would make inquiries of the Soviet Union. These inquiries have been made, and I am waiting to hear from them.
§ Sir P. HurdWere not inquiries to be made of the United States into the experiments dealing with firedamp from the coal face?