Mr. Creech Jones(by Private Notice) asked the Paymaster-General whether he will make a statement on the explosion and tragic loss of life in Walton Colliery, near Wakefield, yesterday.
§ The Paymaster-General (Mr. Reginald Maudling)The overman in charge of a district and four men working with him were killed in an explosion at Walton Colliery, near Wakefield, yesterday. There were no survivors from the district. Eight men who were affected by breathing carbon monoxide during rescue attempts were taken to hospital. Six of them have now been sent home, and the other two are expected to leave hospital today.
The explosion caused considerable damage, and roof falls have obstructed access and prevented the restoration of ventilation. It has not been possible for anyone except rescue teams, wearing breathing apparatus, to enter the district. There are indications that something is still burning and because of the danger of another explosion it has been decided by the inspectors, management and workmen that the district should be sealed off The necessary stoppings are being constructed and should be finished later today.
Her Majesty's inspectors are investigating the occurrence, but it is not possible yet to determine the cause of the explosion.
The House will wish to join with me in expressing deep sympathy with the relatives of the men who lost their lives.
Mr. Creech JonesMay I thank the Minister for his statement and his promise of an inquiry and thank him, on behalf of myself and my right hon., and hon. Friends, for his expression of sympathy to the relatives of the men who have died, with which we should like to associate ourselves? May I also express our admiration of the magnificent work done by the rescue teams during this trying business?