§ Mr. D. J. Williamsasked the Minister of Fuel and Power how many collieries, employing 100 or more men, have been closed down in South Wales since 1921; and how many new pits have been opened in the same area during the same period.
Major Lloyd GeorgeThe number of coal mines in South Wales and Monmouthshire employing 100 persons or more in 1921 which are now closed is 129: the number of existing mines not in operation in 1921 is 133, of which only 28 were employing 100 persons or more at the end of 1944.
§ Mr. D. J. Williamsasked the Minister of Fuel and Power whether there is any immediate prospect of sinking new pits and developing new undertakings in the anthracite coalfield; and whether he is aware of the anxiety felt by local authorities in West Wales for information on this matter.
Major Lloyd GeorgeI would ask the hon. Member to await the publication of the Regional Survey Report for the South Wales Coalfield, which will contain full information as to proposed new developments in that district, including the anthracite area. As regards the last part of the Question, I have not received any representations from local authori-1486W ties on this matter, but I can appreciate their anxiety and that of everyone else concerned.