§ 48. Mr. Abseasked the Minister of Power whether he is aware that, following upon investigations made last year by his inspectorate, further explosions have taken place at Cwmynyscoy Quarry, Pontypool, endangering lives and property at Penyrheol; what action he is taking upon the representations made to him by the Pontypool Urban District Council; and whether, in view of public alarm, he will order a public inquiry into the blasting methods used at this quarry.
§ Mr. FreesonThe Pontypool Urban District Council wrote to the Ministry on 31st October about an unusually powerful blast at the quarry which took place on 17th October, 1968. Her Majesty's Inspector of Mines and Quarries had already carried out a full investigation of the incident on 24th October. The Council will be informed of his findings and of my right hon. Friend's view that a public inquiry would not be justified.