HC Deb 29 February 1972 vol 832 c85W
Mr. Milne

asked the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry if he will make a statement on Her Majesty's Government's policy on the retention of coal-fired power stations.

Mr. Ridley

No.

Mr. Milne

asked the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry what is the policy to be followed by Her Majesty's Government in regard to the use of oil at coal-fired power stations arising from the Government's relaxation of emergency powers following the ending of the mining dispute.

Mr. Ridley

Lighting-up oil is being used at Blyth temporarily to increase the output of the station during the emergency. There is no application from the C.E.G.B. to convert this station to oil-firing.

Mr. Harper

asked the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry if he will give an undertaking that none of the present existing coal-fired power stations will be converted to other forms of fuel.

Mr. Ridley

No.