§ 24. Mr. Roland Robinsonasked the Minister of Fuel and Power what progress has been made with the experiment with regard to the underground gasification of coal.
§ Mr. Noel-BakerMy Ministry has begun a preliminary experiment in the 733 underground gasification of coal at Newman Spinney, near Chesterfield. The seam chosen is very suitable for the work: the necessary boring has begun well; and while it is too early to forecast the result, there are good hopes that some, at least, of the complicated technical problems may be solved.
§ Mr. RobinsonAs the Americans have already completed such an experiment, thas the right hon. Gentleman reached any agreement with the American Government for the interchange of information on this subject?
§ Mr. Noel-BakerOur experts were present at the American experiments and observed everything and had full information. I am sure we shall work very closely with them, as we hope to do with the Belgians and as we would do with the Russians if they would let us. May I say that I am grateful to the hon. Member and to my hon. Friend's for their interest in this most important matter. If the hon. Member would like to visit the experiment I shall be very glad to arrange it.
§ Mr. RobinsonThank you very much.