§ 26. Mr. Frank Allaunasked the Minister of Power if, in view of the increased number of accidents recently in Manchester and Salford and other areas arising from broken gas mains, he will consider further precautions to prevent further accidents of this kind.
§ Mr. GeorgeI am not aware of any recent increase in such accidents, but the Gas Council and area boards are seeking to reduce the risks by research as to causes and by survey of mains.
§ Mr. AllaunWhile appreciating the big efforts made in re-laying gas mains and constant inspection, is not the hon. Gentleman aware that these accidents are still occurring and are increasing? Does not that suggest that a nonpoisonous gas is the main answer to the problem?
§ Mr. GeorgeI repeat that, in the district mentioned by the hon. Gentleman, the number of accidents from fractured mains is decreasing and not increasing. I appreciate what he has said about the activities of the Board, which is continuing to keep this matter under review by testing and drilling. The Board will not relax its efforts to secure further safety from fractured mains.