HC Deb 23 July 1962 vol 663 cc101-2W
Mr. Ellis Smith

asked the Minister of Power how much money has been spent on research and development of electrical equipment for the mines; and to what extent there is close co-operation between his Department and the National Coal Board in this research.

Mr. Peyton

Research and development work directed to ensuring the safety of electrical equipment used in mines has been carried on by the Safety in Mines Research Establishment for many years. The current annual cost is £25,000. The National Coal Board's large expenditure on research and development on mining equipment contains a substantial electrical element, but it is not costed separately. There is close contact at all levels between the Establishment and the Board.