§ 15. Mr. Probertasked the Secretary of State for Wales what further consideration he has given to the siting of gas containers at Hirwaun, Aberdare, following the representations made to him.
§ Mr. Peter ThomasI have already taken and announced my decision on the planning application by the Gas Corporation, which was the subject of a public local inquiry. I have no powers to reopen the matter or require the Gas Corporation to consider alternative sites.
§ Mr. ProbertIn view of the recent terrible explosion of such a gas container in the United States in which over 50 men lost their lives, does not the Secretary of State think it right and proper to consult the Gas Corporation to see what steps it is taking to ensure that such an accident will not occur in Hirwaun? If not, will he reconsider his decision to approve the site in view of its proximity to a residential area?
§ Mr. ThomasThe answer to the last part of the hon. Gentleman's question is that I have no power to intervene or reconsider the matter. But I shall bring to the notice of the Gas Corporation the facts that the hon. Gentleman gave about the explosion in the United States.
§ Mr. ColemanWill the Secretary of State confirm that during the public inquiry his inspector checked on the safety of a similar plant in Scotland, as did the Neath Rural District Council, in whose area the plant is sited, and received assurances thereon?
§ Mr. ThomasYes, Sir. The inspector looked at a similar installation in Scotland, and his recommendation took that into account.