NACODS

In his former role as general secretary of the mining union Nacods in Wales, Bleddyn Hancock was also involved in the Phurnacite case.

Bleddyn Hancock says Nacods could face costs of up to £1m if it loses a bid to pursue compensation by former miners for knee problems caused underground.

If a total walkout occurs, the absence of NACODS' safety experts will close the 55 mines still producing coal and raise the real prospect of coal shortages and power cuts this winter.