§ 12. Mr. Boyesasked the Secretary of State for Energy when he next intends to meet the chairman of the National Coal Board; and if he will discuss with him proposed pit closures.
§ Mr. Peter WalkerIndividual pit closures are natters for the management of the National Coal Board. However, I meet the chairman of the NCB frequently to discuss all aspects of the coal industry. Last Friday I met him to announce the extension of the coal conversion scheme, which I hope will bring great benefit to the industry over the next two years.
§ Mr. BoyesWhen the Secretary of State next meets the chairman of the NCB on that matter, will he make sure that the chief executive of National Coal Board (Enterprise) Ltd. is present, because it is no good closing pits such as Herrington in my contituency and then sending in NCB (Enterprise) Ltd.? We want the jobs to be created in good time. My constituency has 30 per cent. unemployment. Where will the jobs come from for the sons and daughters of miners, even if the miners can get alternative jobs? Where will the youth get jobs? In an earlier answer I was told that 500 jobs a month were being created. Does that mean that I shall get 1,500 jobs in the next three months?
§ Mr. WalkerI have met, not just the chairman of NCB (Enterprise) Ltd., but the whole board of that company. This afternoon what I have found surprising is the sour grapes from Opposition Members at the success of the enterprise company.