§ Mr. Henderson Stewartasked the Minister of Fuel and Power if he is aware that the coalmine at Radernie in East Fife has been ordered to close down on Saturday and that the workers concerned have been given only one week's notice of termination of employment; that this decision is causing much anxiety to the workers and their families; what are the reasons for closing the pit; and if the closing is permanent.
§ Mr. GaitskellYes, Sir. For a number of years this colliery has been carried on at a heavy loss to the Coal Charges Fund in the hope that new workings could be advantageously developed. After a full trial and expert examination of the workings I am satisfied that the output, which has recently been as low as six to II cwt. per man shift, is unlikely to improve. With the present shortage of skilled miners, the continued employment at this pit of men whose services are needed at other neighbouring pits where they could produce two or three times as much coal can no longer be justified. The pit is therefore being closed permanently with effect from 12th July and the employees were so informed on 26th June. Steps are being taken to transfer them to other collieries in the Wemyss area.