HC Deb 18 February 1985 vol 73 cc721-2
15. Mr. Peter Bruinvels

asked the Secretary of State for Energy how many miners have returned to work since January 1985.

Mr. David Hunt

I understand from the National Coal Board that, since 1 January, nearly 18,000 ex-strikers have returned to work.

Mr. Bruinvels

Will my hon. Friend join me in congratulating all those 18,000 courageous miners who have gone back to work? Is this not an example of miners voting with their feet, showing without doubt that they wish to work because they want to keep the industry secure?

Mr. Hunt

Since the last negotiations broke down, more than 34,000 miners have returned to work, thereby showing that they want the NUM president to move. When will he begin to listen?

Mr. Campbell-Savours

Has the move in sterling made all pits more economic?

Mr. Hunt

The economics of a particular pit are a matter for consideration by the NCB on a whole range of issues. One of the important ingredients in the offer now before the NUM is the introduction of a modified colliery review procedure which will enable all those considerations to be taken into account.