HC Deb 12 June 1996 vol 279 c158W
Mr. Clapham

To ask the Secretary of State for the Environment what consultations he has had with the Health and Safety Executive regarding the substantial increase in major accidents in the deep coal mining industry for 1995–96. [31930]

Sir Paul Beresford

None. The mines inspectorate of HSE conducts an investigation into all major accidents in the coal industry.

While there has been an increase in serious accidents, the overall trend in reported accidents, including fatalities, continues on a downward trend. Every effort must be made to reduce accidents further, but the UK deep coal mining industry remains one of the safest in the world.

Mr. Clapham

To ask the Secretary of State for the Environment what plans he has to inquire into the management of safety in the deep coal mining industry following the increases in major accident figures in 1995–96. [31929]

Sir Paul Beresford

None. I am satisfied that the mines inspectorate of HSE give proper priority to ensuring the effective management of safety in the deep coal mining industry.

While there has been an increase in serious accidents, the overall trend in reported accidents, including fatalities, continues on a downward trend. Every effort must be made to reduce accidents further but the UK deep coal mining industry remains one of the safest in the world.