HC Deb 27 July 1936 vol 315 cc1111-2W
Mr. HOLLAND

asked the Secretary for Mines whether he has received the report of an accident which occurred at the Glapwell colliery, Derbyshire, on the 18th instant, where a workman was fatally injured as a result of a shot fired in the mine; whether he is satisfied that due and audible notice was given to all the men working in the vicinity where the accident took place; and, if not, will he take steps to see that a more efficient method of signalling is adopted with a view to safeguarding life?

Captain CROOKSHANK

I am satisfied that proper warning had been given. The men had actually taken shelter but one of them looking back saw a light from a lamp which had been left behind at a spot some 19 yards from the shothole, thought mistakenly that somebody was there in danger, returned to warn him and was fatally injured when the shot went off. The jury at the inquest suggested that lights should not be left in the coal face in such circumstances and the colliery company is giving effect to that recommendation, which should prevent any further accidents of the kind.