HC Deb 19 December 1983 vol 51 cc2-3
2. Mr. Dormand

asked the Secretary of State for Energy if he will make a statement on policy concerning the future of the coal industry.

The Under-Secretary of State for Energy (Mr. Giles Shaw)

Our aims for the industry are reflected in the objectives set for the board, which were published: in the Official Report of the first sitting of the Standing Committee on the Coal Industry Bill, 22 November, c. 38.

Mr. Dormand

Does the Minister agree that the boiler conversion scheme can play a significant part in increasing the demand for coal? Have there not been many more applications for aid recently under the scheme? Has not the National Coal Board called upon the Government to continue and improve the scheme? In those circumstances, if the scheme is not continued and improved, would that not be a deliberate act of sabotage of the coal industry? Will the hon. Gentleman consult his hon. Friends in the Department of Industry on the scheme as a matter of urgency?

Mr. Shaw

The hon. Gentleman will be aware that the matter is largely the subject of another question on the Order Paper, but I agree that it is an important factor to be considered in relation to the development of the NCB. The matter is being urgently considered at the moment.

Mr. J. Enoch Powell

Have the Government noted the recent remarks of the chairman of the NCB on the potentialities for a large increase of coal sales in Northern Ireland? Will that matter be vigorously followed up?

Mr. Shaw

I can assure the right hon. Gentleman on both counts. We have noted the remarks of the chairman of the NCB. I have discussed the matter with him. I assure the right hon. Gentleman that we shall do what we can to see that that market is supplied.

Mr. Hardy

While in the next two or three years the coal industry may continue to face problems, largely because of the Government's policies, does the Minister agree that beyond that time the country is likely to have an increasing requirement for coal? Will he therefore ensure that the industry is allowed to survive the short-term difficulties so that it can meet long-term needs?

Mr. Shaw

Hon. Members on both sides of the House must accept that the objective of the Government's policy and of the NCB is to ensure that the industry has a longterm viable prospect. It is to that end that we are committed to the present policy.

Mr. Rowlands

The hon. Gentleman said that boiler conversion was an urgent matter. We have asked him about this many times. The Government do not appear to be acting very quickly on it. Are there any hitches or problems, or is the Chancellor of the Exchequer once again the obstacle to this excellent scheme?

Mr. Shaw

The hon. Gentleman knows that the scheme is not under the direct responsibility of my Department. He will recognise that it is for us to persuade our colleagues. I trust that an announcement will be made shortly.