§ 22. Mr. Alisonasked the Secretary of State for Energy if he is satisfied with the adequacy of the terms of compensation for farmers and others affected by mining subsidence.
§ Mr. EadieI am not aware of any great dissatisfaction with the way the 22 National Coal Board discharges its liability under the Coal-Mining (Subsidence) Act 1957.
§ Mr. AlisonDoes the hon. Gentleman think it reasonable that losses in quantity and quality of crops, and other consequential losses should, when large-scale mining subsidence occurs, be made eligible for compensation?
§ Mr. EadieThe hon. Gentleman knows, I think, that an inter-departmental group is studying that matter. The subject is very complex and the Department has had to give higher priority to more pressing matters, but I hope to receive the report in the next few weeks.