To ask the President of the Board of Trade what progress has been made on resolving the minewater problems that have threatened the National Coal Mining Museum for England. [18057]

My hon. Friend will be aware that there has been widespread concern about the future of the Museum. I have made clear that I share that concern, and that I wish to do all I could to resolve the Museum's problems. I am pleased to say that agreement has now been reached between all those concerned on a programme of work that should, if successful, secure the Museum's underground section from the risk of flooding, and allow it to reopen in the coming months.