HC Deb 19 December 1967 vol 756 cc1061-2
3. Mr. Eadie

asked the Minister of Technology what is the machinery of consultation between his Department and the Ministry of Power on matters of mutual concern.

Mr. Benn

There is continuing contact at all levels on matters which concern both Departments.

Mr. Eadie

Would my right hon. Friend agree that his Ministry has some responsibility for the technology of the derivatives from coal? Is he aware that in this November's issue of the New Scientist there were reports of sulphur being extracted on the sites of conventional coal-fired power stations? What part will his Department play in this new technology?

Mr. Benn

That is a specific question. If my hon. Friend will put down a Question, I will do my best to answer it.

Mr. Wingfield Digby

Is there adequate contact over the price of shipbuilding steel, which is causing grave anxiety in the shipbuilding industry?

Mr. Benn

The hon. Gentleman knows that there has been a great number of discussions on this question involving both Departments.

Mr. Spriggs

In view of my right hon. Friend's responsibility for the derivatives from coal, what is he doing about this matter? Will he make a statement?

Mr. Benn

I promised my hon. Friend the Member for Midlothian (Mr. Eadie) that if he puts down a specific question I will make a full report to the House.

Sir H. Legge-Bourke

Would the right hon. Gentleman say how long we must wait before perhaps the most important issue of all—it is of mutual importance to both Departments—is fully considered, namely, the future of the nuclear reactor industry?

Mr. Benn

The Select Committee's Report came out not so very long ago. It raised very important questions. A number of consultations are required. I assure the hon. Gentleman that there will be no delay on this matter.