asked the Secretary for Mines whether, in relation to the flooding of a mine in Staffordshire recently, he can now give information as to the cause of flooding; whether there were drawings of the workings where the water was lodged; and who was responsible for a bore not being kept in front of the working face?

I have been asked to reply. The underground roads affected by the inrush of water at Shut End No. 5 Colliery on 21st April last have now been cleared and an inspection has been made. The inrush came from an accumulation of water in old workings to the north-east of Shut End No. 5 pit. Drawings of the workings through which the water reached No. 5 pit were in the possession of the management, but it is not yet clear where the water was lodged before it burst through. The old workings immediately adjoining the scene of the accident had been travelled three months before, and as no water was found no danger was apprehended, and no regular boring was carried out by the management. The matter is still under inquiry.

Will steps be taken to see that in other cases, which must be similar to this, a bore shall be kept going, whether there is water or not, and that that regulation shall be carried out? In old workings a bore should be kept going, because it may mean the saving of lives.

The hon. Member should put that question on the Paper.