§ Mr. Skeetasked the Secretary of State for Energy for how long underground gasification research has been undertaken in the United Kingdom; what thickness of coal is required for the purpose; and what his estimate is of the effect of underground coal gasification upon surface subsidence.
§ Mr. John MooreResearch on underground gasification in the United Kingdom is a matter for the National Coal Board. I have asked the chairman to reply to the points raised by my hon. Friend.
§ Mr. Skeetasked the Secretary of State for Energy what funds currently are being spent upon research on the underground gasification of coal; and whether increases are contemplated.
§ Mr. John MooreI understand the advanced mining evaluation unit of the National Coal Board's mining research and development establishment is making some feasibility studies on underground gasification. The level of expenditure on this work is a matter for the board's judgment.