HC Deb 26 July 1982 vol 28 c730
4. Mr. Welsh

asked the Secretary of State for Energy what was the total borrowing from the EEC by the National Coal Board for the years 1971 to 1979 and 1979 to 1982.

Mr. John Moore

It was £418 million and £349 million respectively.

Mr. Welsh

I thank the Minister for that reply. Has any restriction been placed on the National Coal Board's borrowings from the EEC since 1979?

Mr. Moore

I think that the hon. Gentleman is worried about the absence of borrowings in 1981. That is a reflection of the fact that throughout most of the year it was cheaper by more than 3 per cent. to borrow from British rather than foreign sources.

Mr. Allen McKay

Following the petroleum industry's financial support of the liquefaction plant, does the Minister intend to proceed with the plant on an experimental basis? Is he aware that if the Government put £1 million into the project the EEC will make £5 million available?

Mr. Moore

The hon. Gentleman may remember that previously I told the House that the issue was being reviewed by the National Coal Board. The first meeting of the board's review will take place this week.