§ Mr. Eadieasked the Secretary of State for Scotland to what extent his Department consults the Scottish Economic Planning Council regarding future envisaged pit closures; how many meetings have been held on the subject; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. RossThe Scottish Economic Planning Council has considered the general implications of the rundown in coal-mining employment in Scotland on a number of occasions. It has not, until recently, been concerned with individual pit closures, but I have now invited the vice-chairman and two members of the Council to hold discussions on my behalf with the National Coal Board about future closures.