§ Mr. Skeetasked the Secretary of State for Energy what is the future of the National Coal Board in petrochemicals.
§ Mr. EadieThe National Coal Board's objectives include furthering the use of coal both as a source of energy and as a chemical feedstock. It is examining ways in which more sophisticated coal-based raw materials might be utilised to complement petrochemical production. It believes this can best be achieved in collaboration with existing petrochemical producers and with the steel industry.