17. Mr. Slaterasked the Minister of Power what consultations took place between his Department and the National Coal Board regarding the Revised Plan for Coal, based upon estimates of 300 million tons of coal equivalent in 1965; and whether any amendment of the total energy needs is now contemplated.
§ Mr. WoodIn preparing the Revised Plan, the Board consulted my Department about the estimates of total energy requirements. There are no changes in these estimates which would justify the Board in aiming at a mining capacity in 1965 lower than 200 million tons.
Mr. SlaterIs the Minister aware that every care must be taken to safeguard against the depletion in manpower in this industry if we are to reach the target stated by the Minister? If we are to keep the men in the industry, does the 841 Minister not agree that every consideration ought to be given to the question of shorter hours?
§ Mr. WoodAs my hon. Friend explained, that is a matter which is up to the Board and the unions to negotiate themselves.