HC Deb 18 October 1944 vol 403 cc2385-6
86. Mr. Mander

asked the Minister of Fuel and Power if he will make a statement with regard to the burning of slack from outcrop coal at Short Heath, Willenhall, Staffordshire; where the responsibility lies; and if he will cause an inquiry to be conducted if necessary.

The Joint Parliamentary Secretary to the Ministry of Fuel and Power (Mr. Toni Smith)

My right hon. Friend has already had an inquiry made into this incident. The statements which have appeared in the Press regarding the loss of coal by fire at Hilton Main Colliery Dump have been very much exaggerated. The coal consists of screenings normally flowing to industrial markets. The responsibility for the safety of the stock rests in the first instance with the colliery company but it must be recognised that with many coals there are serious difficulties in controlling spontaneous combustion. As soon as the Regional Controller was notified remedial measures were put in hand. The fire has now been quenched.

Mr. Mander

Is my hon. Friend aware that there was considerable uncertainty locally as to the relative responsibility of the Ministry of Fuel and Power and the Ministry of Works; and will he take steps to see that that is changed in the future?

Mr. Smith

As far as it is possible.

Mr. R. J. Taylor

Is it not the case that fire can only take place if there is gross negligence, and that before a fire is seen it must have been heating for weeks? If my hon. Friend is in any difficulty in this matter I will get him half a dozen men, and if he will allow them to make a dump of 500,000 tons of coal I can assure him that there will be no fire.

Mr. Mander

Who is responsible for the negligence?

Mr. Smith

Responsibility in the first place rests on the colliery company.