HC Deb 28 November 1963 vol 685 cc446-7
8. Mr. W. Hamilton

asked the Minister of Power whether he is aware of the need for a co-ordinated national fuel and energy policy; and if he will now consider as a matter of urgency the implementation of such a policy.

The Minister of Power (Mr. Frederick Erroll)

I carry out my statutory duty of securing the effective and coordinated development of the fuel and power industries in accordance with the national interest which is reflected in the Government's energy policy.

Mr. Hamilton

We have heard all these words before. Is it not a fact that there is no clear evidence that the Government have paid sufficient attention to the inter-relationship of the various fuel-producing industries themselves? Those are not my words, but the words of the F.B.I. in its pamphlet of a week or two ago. Is it not absolutely of fundamental importance, in view of the dire social consequences arising from pit closures, that the coal mining industry, which produces our only indigenous fuel, should be given carte blanche to maintain its position in the fuel economy of the country as a whole?

Mr. Enroll

The nationalised coal industry has its fair share of the market and it is protected from imports of coal, which are now prohibited. As part of my efforts to secure co-ordination, I think that I should ensure that there is effective competition among the industries so that the public has the best choice of fuels.

Mr. Emrys Hughes

Will the right hon. Gentleman tell us what power he has to decide whether a new power station in Scotland, say, will be fuelled by oil or coal? Can he give an indication of what his policy is likely to be?

Mr. Erroll

Electricity generation in Scotland is the responsibility of my right hon. Friend the Secretary of State for Scotland.

Mr. Woodburn

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that fuel policy is not confined to the National Coal Board even when it concerns coal, but that local authorities are involved because of the modernisation of houses by the installation of solid fuel appliances? Does he keep in touch with the foundry industry which produces the appliances, with a view to trying to co-ordinate production of suitable fuels to fit in with modern grates, and to assist in reconditioning old houses, which is also part of general Government policy?

Mr. Erroll

I am sure that the Coal Board keeps in touch with the makers of coal-burning appliances to see that the right appliances are available for the fuels which the Board can offer in different parts of the country.

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