§ 25. Mr. Adam Hunterasked the Minister of Power if, in view of the 9 per cent. increase in coal productivity in 1968, he will take steps to ensure consumption by coal consumers is increased in 1969.
§ Mr. FreesonThis fine achievement will strengthen the coal industry's marketing position and the N.C.B. is already acting on this. The Government will continue to help increased coal consumption at power stations and gas works in 1969.
§ Mr. HunterDoes not my hon. Friend agree that it is futile to keep on increasing productivity without a corresponding 1097 increase in marketing opportunities? Does not he agree also that the former without the latter only accelerates closures?
§ Mr. FreesonIt is axiomatic that, if one increases production levels and productivity, one must relate marketing possibilities to them. This is why the Government will continue in the coming year the increased consumption of coal at power stations.
§ Mr. SpeedIs the hon. Gentleman aware that, in Warwickshire and the South Midlands area, output per man-shift is breaking new records? How is the Coal Board helping? Can it not offer more district heating schemes? Or will it cut back the increased production so that the miners will not work themselves out of jobs?
§ Mr. FreesonThis sort of project can well be encouraged among local developers and others. There has been the excellent move by the National Union of Mineworkers itself recently. It will put cash into such schemes if local authorities and others seek investment for them.
§ Mr. AshtonWill my hon. Friend ask the N.C.B. to give wide publicity to the district heating scheme at the Kelvin block of flats in Sheffield in order that local authorities generally may see the value and efficiency of such schemes?
§ Mr. FreesonWe can draw the attention of the National Coal Board to that suggestion but I am not aware that it is failing to publicise its interest in and the potential of such projects. These are developments which could also be followed up by others.