Cruel twist of fate - Blair

The Prime Minister has described the closure of the North-East's last remaining deep mine a "cruel twist of fate".

Speaking exclusively to The Journal, Tony Blair offered his sympathies to the hundreds of colliery workers now facing redundancy saying no-one could "underestimate the impact" Ellington's closure would have.

The closure of Ellington means the end of 800-years of coal mining tradition in the North-East - a factor Mr Blair said everyone was conscious of.

"My thoughts and sympathies are with those workers and families affected by this closure.

"Flooding forcing the pit to close after so much investment over recent years is a cruel twist of fate.

"While we in no way underestimate the impact that this will have on the lives of those affected, the Government and local agencies will be on hand to support those facing redundancy."

Yesterday, MPs were quick to demand action from the Government ensuring a Commons motion was tabled following the closure announcement.

Alan Beith, writing the motion, said ministers had to urgently assess whether Government cash could be used to restore Ellington to its former glory, saying there were "substantial reserves" to be mined.

However, the Berwick MP was quick to admit there was little hope of resurrection, and called on ministers to announce measures to assist regeneration of the area.

The Journal: Today's Voice of the North

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