§ 34. Mr. Rhys Daviesasked the Minister of Fuel and Power whether inquiries have been made into the possibility of spontaneous ignition of large coal dumps, especially from open cast mining, and with what results?
§ The Minister of Fuel and Power (Major Lloyd George)Yes, Sir. They showed that the risk of spontaneous combustion in coal heaps can be substantially reduced if reasonable precautions are taken. A pamphlet was distributed early this year for the guidance of those responsible for the storage of large quantities of coal, and I believe that the advice it contains has been widely used.
§ Mr. DaviesWill the right hon. and gallant Gentleman bear in mind that colliery rubbish heaps have a habit of burning themselves out, although the amount of coal in these rubbish heaps is very small on occasions?
§ Major Lloyd GeorgeWe do not have any rubbish in our dumps.
§ Mr. LawsonIs my right hon. and gallant Friend aware that some companies are more successful than others in treating these burning heaps, and will he take steps to find out the reason for the difference?
§ Major Lloyd GeorgeI think my hon. Friend is talking of something else. The Question referred to the coal dumps throughout the country, and I think the hon. Member is referring to the slag heaps.