HC Deb 06 February 1968 vol 758 cc220-1
15. Mr. Eadie

asked the Minister of Power what are his proposals about coal derivatives in the light of devaluation.

Mr. Freeson

My right hon. Friend is sure the National Coal Board will take full advantage of any opportunities arising.

Mr. Eadie

Would not my hon. Friend agree that it would be helpful to the country if there were a re-examination of the question of coal deliveries? Would not he further agree that the Report of the Committee which considered this subject some years ago is now out of date?

Mr. Freeson

This is a matter for the National Coal Board. It is in close contact with whatever is going on in this respect, not only in this country, but in others, and I think that we must leave it to the Board to put forward proposals.

Sir B. Craddock

Can the hon Gentleman say whether research is continuing into the production of oil from coal'?

Mr. Freeson

Research is going on all the time, particularly in countries where there are cheaper coal supplies, and the National Coal Board is in touch with this.

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