Debate on ‘Justice for Coalfields’ campaign
Labour has called a debate for next week in the Commons as part of its ‘Justice for the Coalfields’ campaign.
30 years on, MPs will vote on a motion to acknowledge evidence that the Thatcher Government misled the public about the extent of its pit closure plans; recognise the economic legacy of the pit closure programme on coalfield communities; and call for continued regeneration and support for former coalfield areas.
He said: “It’s 30 years on but the scars of the pit closures run deep in South Yorkshire.
“When the coal industry collapsed a quarter of the male population in the coalfields lost their jobs. Nearly half of all ex-miners were left with long-term illness or injury. Thousands of men were thrown on the scrapheap, whole families suffered and entire communities were devastated.”
• John hopes to speak during the debate and wants to hear from miners and their families who have stories to tell about the impact of pit closures on their lives and their area. Email john.healey.mp@parliament.uk or write to 79 High Street, Wath-upon-Dearne, Rotherham S63 7QB.