§ Mr. SkinnerTo ask the Secretary of State for Energy (1) whether he will make it his policy to hold discussions with British Coal regarding the escape of methane gas at Arkwright colliery with a view to ensuring that British Coal accepts total liability for claims made by the families and others concerned;
(2) what recent inquiries he has made of British Coal regarding payments of compensation to families and others affected by the escape of methane gas at Arkwright colliery; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. Michael SpicerThis is a matter for British Coal. However it has kept me regularly informed of the situation at Arkwright, following the emission of methane. I understand that British Coal has already made a £100 ex gratia interim payment to all the families who had to be evacuated. This is an advance against the settlement of reasonable future claims, which British Coal has agreed to pay on a "good neighbour" basis. Legal liability is ultimately at matter for the courts to decide.