HC Deb 17 January 1968 vol 756 cc628-9W
Mr. Webster

asked the Minister of Power when he expects to receive the report of the inquiry into the explosion at Congresbury, Somerset, on 17th December, 1967, in which one person was killed and another seriously injured.

Mr. Freeson:

The South Western Gas Board are preparing the report of their inquiry into the cause of this accident in readiness for the Inquest which has been adjourned until 7th February. My right hon. Friend expects to receive the report at that time.

Mr. Webster

asked the Minister of Power if he will publish the report of the inquiry into the Congresbury gas explosion on 17th December, 1967.

Mr. Freeson:

The South Western Gas Board will make the report of their inquiry into this accident available for study by all concerned.

Mr. Webster

asked the Minister of Power when the six-inch medium-pressure gas pipe main from which escaping gas caused an explosion in Congresbury on 17th December, 1967 was laid; and when the last inspection of that gas main took place.

Mr. Freeson:

I am informed that this main was laid in 1947–48. The report of the inquiry which the South Western Gas Board are now preparing will include information concerning the inspection of this main.

Mr. Webster

asked the Minister of Power which of his regulations control the proximity of gas main pipes and sewerage systems; and whether he is satisfied that they were complied with in the siting of the gas main in Congresbury.

Mr. Freeson:

My right hon. Friend has made no regulations controlling the proximity of gas mains and sewerage systems. Area gas boards, including the South Western Gas Board, have codes of practice governing mains distribution work which incorporate the Recommendations for Mainlaying prepared by the Institution of Gas Engineers. Furthermore, details of all mainlaying work planned to be carried out by an Area Board are required by the Public Utilities Street Works Act, 1950 to be notified in advance to local authorities and other utilities (including sewer authorities) and the work must be performed so as to avoid any risk of damage to or from other plant on or near the route of the main.