§ Mr. Skeetasked the Secretary of State for Industry (1) whether he has considered the implications of clause 66 of the Cornwall County Council Bill, relating to the acquisition of mineral rights; and if he will make a statement;
(2) whether he will consider amending the Mines (Working Facilities and Support) Act 1966 rather than permit piecemeal modifications in private legislation.
§ Mr. MacGregorConsideration is being given to clause 66 of the Cornwall County Council Bill. I am not aware of any evidence to show that the Mines (Working Facilities and Support) Act 1966 is operating unsatisfactorily.
§ Mr. Skeetasked the Secretary of State for Industry whether he has any eviXdence to show that section 4 of the Mines (Working Facilities and Support) Act 1966 requires amendment to make the legislation more accommodating to the mineral industry.
§ Mr. MacGregorI am not aware of any evidence which shows that section 4 of the Mines (Working Facilities and Support) Act 1966 requires amendment, but if my hon. Friend has any information which he would like to bring to my attention in this context I would be happy to examine it.
§ Mr. Skeetasked the Secretary of State for Industry how many cases have been referred to the High Court under section 4 of the Mines (Working Facilities and Support) Act 1966.
§ Mr. MacGregorThere have been no further references to the High Court since my reply to my hon. Friend the Member for New Forest (Mr. McNair-Wilson) on 9 February.