HC Deb 04 July 1967 vol 749 cc1539-40
25. Sir J. Gilmour

asked the Minister of Power what estimate he has now made of the landed cost of American coal in this country as a possible alternative to Middle East fuel oil; and if he will make a statement.

Mr. Marsh

None, Sir. We have ample supplies of British coal available.

Sir J. Gilmour

Does the Minister not agree that the importation of American coal would help the industry in the long run by stimulating coal utilisation?

Mr. Marsh

No, Sir. I think that it would be a mistake to change the policy in this field at the moment.

Mr. William Hamilton

Is my right hon. Friend aware that the miners in Fife, and particularly in East Fife, will not welcome the hon. Member's suggestion?

Mr. Marsh

My own researches confirm my hon. Friend's view.

Sir J. Eden

Will the right hon. Gentleman say how the landed cost of this coal compares with the cost of a similar grade of coal mined in this coun- try? is there any demand for this coal from the steel industry?

Mr. Marsh

I could not give the figures off hand. United States coal is landed in Antwerp at around 98s. a ton, which is roughly the average British pithead price.