§ Mr. Nellistasked the Secretary of State for Energy in what year the production of coal was last at, or below, the figure of 97.4 million tons in a year.
§ Mr. Giles ShawCoal production has steadily declined over many years due to changes in domestic heating systems, greater energy efficiency, and use of alternative sources of coal. The planned further reduction in production of 4 per cent. to 97.4 million tonnes of deep-mined coal is intended to improve the efficiency and therefore the prospects of the industry.