§ 9. Mr. Proctorasked the Paymaster-General if he will give a general direction to the National Coal Board to investigate and report on the likely effects of mining subsidence in the United Kingdom, with particular reference to the probable incidence of flooding.
§ Mr. MaudlingNo, Sir. In view of its obligations under the Coalmining (Subsidence) Act, the National Coal Board is constantly studying these effects.
§ Mr. ProctorIs the right hon. Gentleman aware of the grave concern about this matter, especially among local authorities in the Eccles division, where canals are grouted and the surrounding land is allowed to sink so that we are in danger in future of creating artificial lakes? Does he not think that consultation with the local authorities and the discussion on future plans to avoid these disasters would be better than attemping to mitigate them after subsidence has taken place? Does not he, and the National Coal Board realise how grave and costly the danger is likely to be?
§ Mr. MaudlingThere is very close and continuous consultation on all these matters, but if the hon. Member has in mind any instance in particular in which he thinks that danger might arise and will let me know, I shall be glad to communicate it to the National Coal Board.