§ 82. Mr. Leadbitterasked the Minister of Power what notification he has had of the estimated number of pit closures in the Northern Region during the next three years; how many men are involved; and what proportion of these is expected to be absorbed in the remaining mines in the Region.
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§ Mr. FreesonAt the time the Colliery Classification List was published in November, 1965, it was announced that all of the "C" pits and many of the "B" pits were likely to close in the next five years.
At present there are 20 "B" pits and 30 "C" pits in the Northern Region employing approximately 37,000 men. Decisions on individual closures and their timing will only be taken by the N.C.B. after consulting the Unions. In the past three years nearly 80 per cent. of the men affected by closures have been transferred to other pits, nearly all within the Region. The Board will continue its policy of transferring as many men as possible in this way.