A documentary examining the Aberfan disaster has brought renewed attention to the actions and alleged attitudes of Lord Alf Robens, the former Labour MP and chairman of the National Coal Board. The film, "Aberfan: The Village That Fought Back," reportedly highlights what is described as the "callous contempt" of the Coal Board towards the families affected by the 1966 tragedy.
The documentary focuses on the aftermath of the disaster, which saw a colossal waste heap collapse and engulf a primary school in South Wales, resulting in the deaths of 144 people, predominantly children. Rather than dwell on widely known aspects like the Queen's response or donations from figures like the Kray Twins, the film emphasizes the families' struggles with grief and their efforts to prevent future calamities.
Archival footage featured in the film reportedly captures Lord Robens's demeanor upon arriving in South Wales to meet with parents of the victims. He is described as appearing both flattered and displeased when approached by a BBC reporter. In one observed instance, while stroking back his hair as if posing for a photograph, Robens allegedly offered no words of consolation. His reported statement that he expected to depart by air at "8.45 this evening" is cited as an example of his perceived lack of empathy.
The film also touches upon Robens's past, noting his career as a trade unionist and former Manchester city councillor, as well as his reported avoidance of active military service during World War II due to being certified as 'medically unfit.' This is presented in contrast to his handling of the Aberfan catastrophe.
According to the review, Robens maintained that the Coal Board could not have prevented the disaster and that minimal aid was necessary for the survivors. He is quoted as having dismissed the risks posed by six other slag heaps overlooking the valley after a brief inspection. The documentary details how the community reportedly had to campaign for three years to have these heaps removed, and even then, the Coal Board allegedly required the townsfolk to contribute £150,000 from their charity fund towards the cost.
Bereaved families are said to have received only £50 from the Coal Board, an amount reportedly equivalent to one month's wages for a miner. The review notes that the Charity Commission initially required parents to provide evidence of having been "close to their children" to receive these funds.
"Aberfan: The Village That Fought Back" was broadcast on BBC Two, with the exception of Wales, where it aired on BBC1. In other regions, a repeat of "Death In Paradise" was shown instead. Additionally, an earlier short film, "Unseen: The Aberfan Portraits," by artist Bill Richardson, which depicted oil paintings of the lost children, was shown in Wales but not broadcast nationally. The review suggests seeking out this film on iPlayer, describing it as heartbreaking.