7. Mrs. Slaterasked the Paymaster-General what general directions have been given to the National Coal Board to carry out further research on the extraction of oil from coal; and what steps have been taken to comply with such directions.
§ Mr. MaudlingNone, Sir. The British Coal Utilisation Research Association, in which the National Coal Board has a large interest, is playing an important part in the general scheme of research which is being carried out under the auspices of the Ministry of Power.
Mrs. SlaterIn view of the increasing stocks of coal and the fact that if the stocks could be used in this way it might have a bearing on imports, does not the right hon. Gentleman think that he should do something more to step up research along these lines?
§ Mr. MaudlingI can assure the hon. Lady that my noble Friend and everyone concerned in the industry recognise what great advantages could be achieved from successful research in this matter, and efforts are being made by all concerned, the National Coal Board, the Department and trade associations.