§ Mr. R. M'LARENasked the Home Secretary what was the cause of the accident at Newliston Shale Mine, near Broxburn, whereby three members of a rescue brigade team lost their lives in endeavouring to reach the seat of an underground fire, and if any further attempt has been made to recover the body of the captain of the team left in the workings?
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§ Mr. SHORTTIt appears probable that the men fell on the slippery pavement and disarranged their breathing apparatus, but the accident may have been in part due to the defects in the apparatus. This is now the subject of further investigation.
Direct attempts to recover the body of the third member of the rescue team have been suspended, pending the erection of stoppings which should enable this to be done with less danger, and I understand the work is being proceeded with as rapidly as possible.