But what this sweeping and negative summary fails to cover is important. Throughout the 1970s and 1980s, the UK was behind some of the most advanced mining technological developments in the world. From mine design, coal treatment and handling, mine management and ‘clean coal’ research, the country enjoyed a clear and undisputed lead. Revolutionary and expensive ‘superpit’ projects, such as the design and sinking of the vast Selby mine complex, pioneering roof-bolting and the laboratory R&D advances of the British Coal Corp. were ground breaking and years ahead of their time. Sadly, much of this is now forgotten.
