HC Deb 04 February 1952 vol 495 cc620-2
18. Mr. Robson Brown

asked the Minister of Fuel and Power if he is aware that the National Coal Board still continues to own a considerable number of properties and activities acquired among the assets of the various colliery companies; and whether he will make a statement as to the directions he will issue to the Coal Board to dispose of those assets, which are in no way related to the operations of the coal mining industry and whose sale would be of benefit to the finances of the Coal Board.

23. Mr. J. Slater

asked the Minister of Fuel and Power if he is aware that certain assets still remain with the National Coal Board which are in no way related to the production of coal; and if he will make a statement as to the directions he will issue to the National Coal Board to dispose of those assets.

Mr. Geoffrey Lloyd

I do not think this is a matter that could be suitably dealt with by a general direction, but the National Coal Board are quite free to dispose of any such assets.

Mr. Robson Brown

Would the Minister consult the Coal Board with a view to their gradually disposing of such assets as are not necessary for the effective operation of the mines, thus releasing the area executives for their proper duty instead of wasting their time on the administration of these extraneous assets?

Mr. Lloyd

The National Coal Board have been disposing of such assets, I think to the extent of about £900,000, during the last year. I have no doubt that they will continue the process, and will pay attention to the hon. Member's Question.

Mr. Slater

Does not the Minister agree that there has been much talk about this aspect of these assets which are attached to the industry? Is he aware that I am rather pleased that he does not propose to seek to take these assets out of the industry, because there are many people connected with private enterprise who are looking with a covetous eye upon these assets, which they would like to use in connection with their own undertakings?

Mr. Lloyd

It is a matter that requires to be looked at on its own merits by the Coal Board.

Mr. P. Bartley

Does the Minister's statement mean that the Coal Board is also willing to sell the farms which are not naturally part of coal production?

Mr. Lloyd

The hon. Gentleman, with his knowledge of the industry, knows that a special question arises in connection with the farms because, in some cases, it was the practice of the colliery owners to own the land rather than risk having to pay subsidence claims. That is still the practice of the Coal Board.