HC Deb 08 November 1966 vol 735 cc248-9W
63. Mr. Shinwell

asked the Minister of Power whether he will ensure that the National Coal Board refrain from tipping waste material on the seashore of the County of Durham.

Dr. Bray

Alternative methods of waste disposal would add substantially to the costs of the Durham pits concerned, but the National Coal Board are anxious to mitigate the effects of waste disposal on amenities and are re-examining this problem.

Mr. Arthur Lewis

asked the Minister of Power (1) whether he will seek such powers as may be necessary to enable him to see that all dangerous slag heaps are cleared forthwith, and that the National Coal Board commences immediately to clear these heaps of waste by placing them underground into disused pits;

(2) whether he will cause an investigation to be made to ascertain the number of waste heaps which are in the coalmining areas and the estimated cost of clearing these by placing them into disused pits.

Mr. Marsh

Action is already being taken to ensure that no colliery waste heaps are dangerous. Whatever needs to be done will be done, but I am advised that the particular proposal made by my hon. Friend is not a practicable solution to this problem.