HC Deb 10 May 1962 vol 659 c620
16. Mr. Stratton Mills

asked the President of the Board of Trade whether, in view of the fact that Northern Ireland is the only part of the United Kingdom to which National Coal Board coal has to be shipped, he will authorise the importation of foreign coal into Northern Ireland.

The President of the Board of Trade (Mr. F. J. Erroll)

No, Sir; it would not be appropriate to distinguish in this way between different parts of the United Kingdom.

Mr. Stratton Mills

If in future it is decided to import American coal to this country, would my right hon. Friend consider giving first priority to areas where the cost of ship freight is a substantial part of the total cost of fuel?

Mr. Erroll

I shall gladly take note of what my hon. Friend has said, but without commitment.