§ Mr. Bruce-Gardyneasked the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry what will be the annual cost to public funds of subsidies to cover losses incurred by the National Coal Board as a result of special agreements with the electricity generating boards to burn extra coal; and if he will break down this global figure by reference to individual coalfields.
§ Mr. EmeryThe negotiations for these agreements are not yet concluded and I cannot therefore estimate the cost next year. The cost in subsequent years will depend on the progress and performance of the National Coal Board.
§ Mr. Bruce-Gardyneasked the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry what will be the annual cost to the Exchequer of the special regional grant to enable the National Coal Board to preserve jobs in areas of high unemployment; and if he will break down this global figure by reference to individual coalfields.
§ Mr. EmeryThe £210 million mentioned in Clause 9 of the Bill is a maximum as the grants to the NCB will be fixed annually in the light of its prospects and performances. The grant will not be broken down by coalfields.