§ Mr. Gareth WardellTo ask the Secretary of State for Energy what responsibilities his Department has for the provision of a rescue service for licensed coal mines.
§ Mr. Michael SpicerThis Department has no direct responsibilities for the provision of rescue services at licensed mines. The Coal and Other Mines (Fire and Rescue) Regulations 1956 require that the owner of a mine is responsible for ensuring provision for rescue is available. The Health and Safety Executive's mines and quarries inspectorate is responsible for ensuring the provisions of the 1956 regulations are complied with.