asked the Secretary for Mines the number of pits closed down during the last 12 months: and the number of those pits in which pumping operations are being retained with a view to the pits being reopened at a future date?

As regards the first part of the question, I would refer the hon. Member to the reply given yesterday to the hon. Member for the Penistone Division (Mr. Rennie Smith). At the large majority of the seams closed down—except those which have definitely been abandoned — pumping is being continued.