HC Deb 17 June 1969 vol 785 c235
11. Mr. Gardner

asked the Minister of Power what contributions his Department makes to the work of the Economic Commission for Europe and the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development.

Mr. Mason

The O.E.C.D. and E.C.E. provide for the international discussion of a wide range of problems relevant to my Department's work, such international discussion can yield useful dividends and my officials play a full part in the work of these bodies.

Mr. Gardner

Can my right hon. Friend give some further information about the studies in which these bodies are engaged? Can he say whether he has reached any conclusions on the likely effects for the British domestic fuel industry of British membership of the E.E.C.?

Mr. Mason

Some of the recent studies the Economic Commission for Europe has in hand include new uses for steel. It is also arranging a conference on a long-term market for coal. As to other fuel uses, there is the long-term look at supplies of coking coal. This is a joint study between this country and the European Coal Commission.