§ Mr. Ross(by Private Notice) asked the Minister of Fuel and Power whether he can make a statement on the explosion that took place at Kilmarnock Generating Station on Sunday last.
§ The Minister of Fuel and Power (Mr. Geoffrey Lloyd)Yes, Sir. From preliminary reports, it appears that this accident originated in a fault that occurred last Sunday afternoon in one of the main distribution cables from the Kilmarnock Generating Station. That fault led to a violent explosion in the switch-room of the generating station, where six men were working. Three of the men were killed immediately, two men have died in hospital, and one is seriously ill. Three rescuers went into the switch-room after the explosion, and of these two were gassed by oil fumes and were detained in hospital: and the third was slightly burned.
265 The British Electricity Authority inform me that they are holding an inquiry into the accident, and I am awaiting further reports.
I am sure that hon. Members will wish to express their deep sympathy with the relatives of those who lost their lives.