§ 10. Mr. Palmerasked the Paymaster-General if he will make a statement on the future export prospects of the British coal industry.
§ Mr. MaudlingThe export demand for coal has fallen sharply this year owing to the slackening in economic activity on the Continent and to competition from oil and from other coal producers. With a higher level of activity there should be opportunities, which I am sure the Coal Board and the coal exporters will take, for expanding this trade.
§ Mr. PalmerBut now that the National Coal Board has gained for itself a breathing space, is it not time to make a new effort in this direction? After all, this country is very close to Western Europe and the United States is relatively far.
§ Mr. MaudlingCertainly, and the National Coal Board is making a continued effort, but so are all its competitors, because all its competitors and its customers are facing the same situation—relatively high stocks and rather flagging demand.