§ Mr. Home RobertsonTo ask the Secretary of State for Scotland how many earth tremors have been recorded in the Musselburgh area in recent weeks; what was the magnitude of the tremors; and if he will make a statement on possible connections with current and historic coal mining operations in the neighbourhood. [3086]
§ Mr. KynochThe British Geological Survey reported on 6 November that 79 tremors have been detected in the Musselburgh area; 19 of which have been recorded as being felt by residents. The tremors have been of varying magnitude; the largest, with a magnitude of 2 on the Richter scale, was recorded on 25 October. Precise records of old workings in the area do not exist. It is difficult therefore to determine precisely the relationship between the tremors and previous and current mining operations. However, in the 25 years of the British Geological Survey's seismic monitoring programme, there have been no reports of structural damage or injuries caused by mining-induced earthquakes.