HC Deb 06 July 1970 vol 803 c305
13. Mr. Sillars

asked the Minister of Technology if he will introduce legislation extending current support for the mining industry to 1974.

15. Mr. Blenkinsop

asked the Minister of Technology whether he will make a statement on the continuance of present agreements on the use of coal in power stations.

The Minister of State, Ministry of Technology (Sir John Eden)

The question of extending beyond March, 1971 the existing powers in the Coal Industry Act, 1967 including the powers to subsidise coal used in power stations, is under active consideration.

Mr. Sillars

Would the hon. Gentleman tell us clearly whether the Conservative Government will or will not introduce a Coal Industry Bill in this current Session, given that they did not oppose the Labour Government's Bill in the last Parliament? Would he give us the further assurance that their Bill will be no less advantageous to the miners than our Bill would have been?

Sir J. Eden

The hon. Gentleman must await the completion of the consideration which I am giving to this. I recognise the urgency of the situation and all the anxieties of those concerned.

Mr. Benn

Can we expect a statement on the Coal Industry Bill before the House rises for the summer?

Sir J. Eden

Certainly—if I have completed my consideration by then.