§ Captain Peart (By Private Notice)asked the Minister of Fuel and Power whether he has any information as to the cause and extent of the accident at Lowca Colliery, Whitehaven, and the number of killed and injured.
The Minister of Fuel and Power (Mr. Shin well)I regret to inform the House that an explosion occurred about 8.30 a.m. yesterday morning in the No. 2 East District of the Main Band Seam at Harrington No. 10 (also known, as Lowca) Colliery, Cumberland. Rescue operations were commenced without delay. Of 16 persons working in the District one was got out alive, though suffering from shock and bums, and 12 bodies have so far been recovered. The rescue work is hampered by falls and derangement of the ventilation caused by the explosion, but everything possible is being done to locate the three remaining men. Until it is possible to make a complete inspection of the areas affected, the cause of the ignition cannot be determined.
I am sure the House will wish to join with me in recording its sincere sympathy with the relatives of those who have lost their lives in this tragic accident.
§ Captain PeartI am grateful for the information and for the sympathy which has been extended to the relatives. Will the Minister see that everything is done to alleviate distress to the families of the men concerned?
§ Mr. ShinwellYes, Sir Everything possible will be done to see that the interests of suffering families are safeguarded. I should like to take the opportunity, Mr. Speaker, of paying tribute to the rescue team who came so willingly to the scene of the accident.