HC Deb 24 October 1973 vol 861 cc1230-1
4. Mr. Eadie

asked the Secretary of State for Scotland what is now the full complement of technical staff he has to advise him in all the aspects of fuel and power.

Mr. Gordon Campbell

Within the Scottish Office the number is nine. In addition, I can call upon expert advice from the Department of Trade and Industry and other sources available to the Government.

Mr. Eadie

This Question is prompted by the fact that in answering Questions the Minister does not seem to be aware whether pits in Scotland will stay open or when they will close. Can he inform the House whether he has been advised by his technical staff in relation to future coal production and new sinkings in Scotland?

Mr. Campbell

As the hon. Gentleman knows, responsibility for the coal industry rests with another member of the Government, but I am kept closely informed. Besides the technical advice, there is also advice available to me from other Departments and from the inspectorates which give advice to all Ministers.

Mr. Eadie

The right hon. Gentleman is not getting it then.

Mr. Alexander Wilson

In view of the world shortage of fuel—it is accepted even by this Government that there is a shortage—will the hon. Gentleman agree to set up a Scottish fuel energy authority? In view of the fact that I and some of my colleagues have raised this matter continually, especially on the Coal Bill, does not the Minister think that it is about time to do something about it?

Mr. Campbell

The hon. Member has raised a different question about setting up a new authority for dealing with Scottish coal. He said "fuel authority" but clearly his purpose was the consideration of coal. Coal is an important industry in Scotland, and that is recognised by my right hon. Friend and myself.

Mr. Ross

Would the Secretary of State break down the responsibilities of his nine advisers? Is there anyone advising him technically on coal?

Mr. Campbell

I cannot do so without notice. The question was about fuel policy as a whole and the House will agree that the point about fuel policy is that one should consider various kinds of fuel and their inter-relationship.