HC Deb 19 April 1948 vol 449 cc113-4W
80. Sir J. Mellor

asked the Minister of Fuel and Power what steps he has taken to investigate the distribution of explosives with coal in the West Midland area; and with what result.

Mr. Robens

My right hon Friend described on 12th February, in reply to the hon. Member for South Paddington (Vice-Admiral Taylor) the steps which are taken to investigate cases of explosion in coal fires or explosives found in coal. He also referred to the measures taken at collieries to minimise the risk of any explosive being left in the coal. We are concerned about the continuance of these incidents, both in the West Midlands and elsewhere, and the whole matter is being fully investigated by the police, with the collaboration of the National Coal Board.