§ Mr. Carter-Jonesasked the Minister of Power if he will take steps to ensure that full-scale tests are carried out to 259W safeguard life and property wherever old pit shafts are discovered; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. FreesonPower to deal with abandoned or disused mine shafts rests with local authorities under Section 151 of the Mines and Quarries Act, 1954. A shaft which is not adequately enclosed or provided with a properly maintained device to prevent persons accidently falling down the shaft or from accidently entering the outlet is deemed to be a statutory nuisance and the local authority can require a remedy using the powers available under the Public Health Act. 1936.