§ 12. Mr. Dalyellasked the Minister of Power what consultations he has had with the National Coal Board regarding the closure of Riddochhill Colliery, West Lothian; and if he will make a state ment.
§ Mr. FreesonIndividual colliery closures are a matter for the National Coal Board, but I was informed by the Board that Riddochhill Colliery would close on 7th December.
§ Mr. DalyellIs it satisfactory that face workers should be expected to take up alternative employment at 80 per cent. of their previous earnings?
§ Mr. FreesonThat is a matter for the National Coal Board and the National Union of Mineworkers.
§ Mr. EadieIs my hon. Friend aware that every pit closure means that men leave the mining industry for good? That has happened in this instance. Does he not think that that is a reason why there should be a complete review of the pit closure policy?
§ Mr. FreesonI would not base any decision on one decision of this kind. As a matter of information, there are 408 men at the colliery at present and alternative work within daily travelling distance is being offered to 299 of them.