HC Deb 09 July 1968 vol 768 cc203-4
23. Mr. Geoffrey Wilson

asked the Minister of Power what directions he has given to the National Coal Board on limiting their stocks of coal.

Mr. Mason

Following consultations with my Department, the National Coal Board is planning to limit undistributed stocks to about 30 million tons, subject to short-term or seasonal fluctuations.

Mr. Wilson

What effect will this have on the pit closure programme in the next four years?

Mr. Mason

It will have no effect at the moment. I am hesitant to say what effect it will have in the next four years. Stocks at present amount to about 29 million tons.