HC Deb 17 February 1986 vol 92 cc33-4W
Mr. Hardy

asked the Secretary of State for Energy what changes there have been in the number of serious underground accidents in British collieries in the last six months; what assessment he makes of the significance of the change; and what advice he is giving to the National Coal Board in regard to the matter.

Mr. David Hunt

The figures for fatal accidents and major injuries under ground in the latest six months for which figures are available are as follows:

1985 (including contractors)
Months Fatal Major injuries
July 1 34
August 1 34
September 0 48
October 3 61
November 2 58
December 2 56
TOTAL 9 291

I am happy to report this improvement over the same six months in 1983, when there were 10 fatal accidents and 339 major injuries.