PROSECUTIONS may arise from a string of incidents at Europe’s largest mine, including a fatal gas explosion and an underground blaze that left workers ‘writing their wills’.

Business minister Margot James told MPs that the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) is preparing to prosecute ICL, the company responsible for the Boulby potash mine in East Cleveland.

On Monday, the Conservative frontbencher said the HSE will “not hesitate to prosecute” ICL if investigations into a number of incidents prove management actions fell short of required standards.

Her comments were in reply to a House of Commons debate into the future of the mine, during which Labour MP Tom Blenkinsop highlighted cases of injuries and deaths at the site.

The MP for Middlesbrough South and East Cleveland claimed an underground fire which broke out at the mine in April 2016 led to workers writing wills, fearing they would not escape with their lives.

Seven employees were taken to hospital as a result of that incident with worker John Richie Anderson killed just months later – in June 2016 – following a gas explosion.

Another miner took his own life at the site in February 2016.

Mr Blenkinsop said: “This mine’s record on safety is not an unblemished one and the nature of this mine means it is a difficult place to work and manage, and will continue to be difficult.

“Everyone wants this mine to be prosperous and succeed, but I believe there are actions that must be taken on these safety issues by both ICL and Government for this to happen.”

Ms James said all incidents had been or are being “thoroughly investigated” by the HSE, adding: “The appropriate action either has been taken or will be taken.

“Should HSE’s current investigations provide evidence of management’s actions falling short of legally required standards, HSE will not hesitate to prosecute ICL.

“Indeed, I believe HSE is preparing to launch prosecutions relating to the trapping incidents in April 2016.”

A spokesman for ICL said safety was their key priority and claimed several improvements had been made since the fire.

He added: “We work closely with the HSE and Mines Inspectorate on investigating the circumstances of all incidents and considering whether additional safety measures should be put in place. 

“We are pleased that in the debate the Minister also referred to the response from the HSE regarding the ‘robust outlook’ to safety issues being taken by the mine management.”

A spokeswoman for HSE said an active investigation meant it would be inappropriate to comment further, adding: “HSE has nothing more to add to what has been publicly said by the Minister.”