asked the Minister of Fuel and Power what number of new sinkings for deep-mined coal have been started since 1st July, 1945, up to, and including, 31st May, 1947; and in what' part of the British coalfields they are situated.

The number of new coal mines opened between 1st July, 1945, and 31st May, 1947, was 103. Most of these are drifts or small mines. I propose to circulate in the OFFICIAL REPORT a list showing the coalfields in which these new coal mines are situated.

Would the Minister consider putting in the Library the plans of the new Rothes coal mines which would be interesting for the Members?

I shall consider that but it is primarily a matter for the National Coal Board.

Following is the list:

asked the Minister of Fuel and Power the number of new sinkings for deep-mined coal which are contemplated in the long-term programme of the National Coal Board.

The amount of investigation and planning required to formulate a comprehensive programme for the reorganisation of the coalmining 'industry is very great and it would be unreasonable to expect the National Coal Board yet to be in a position to give me details of such a programme.

Is the Minister aware that many of the seams in Lancashire lie at what we call the deep level, and it is absolutely essential that work should be proceeding now with a view to winning that coal, because it takes four or five years, with the best methods possible, to reach these seams of coal?

I agree with my hon. Friend, but the National Coal Board are now preparing plans of re-organisation. They are in an advanced stage in certain areas, but they have to fit into the national programme.