HC Deb 08 February 1984 vol 53 cc593-4W
Mr. Mason

asked the Secretary of State for Energy what steps have been taken to carry out the recommendations of the Commission on Energy and the Environment that responsibility for opencast planning be transferred to local authorities; what planning changes are envisaged in this proposal; and if he will make a statement.

Mr. Giles Shaw

I refer the right hon. Member to the reply given to the question he has tabled for answer today by my right hon. Friend the Prime Minister. I shall make a full statement shortly.

Mr. Mason

asked the Secretary of State for Energy how many applications are before him for opencast mining in the Yorkshire area, specifying each application and name of site; whether these applications will be held in abeyance until the amendment of the Opencast Coal Act 1958 has been effected; and if he will make a statement.

Mr. Giles Shaw

None.