§ Mr. Masonasked the Secretary of State for Energy what assessment he makes of the problems of enforcing compulsory redundancies in the coal mines if the redundant mineworkers benefit scheme is not amended to cover those mineworkers who failed to pay contributions for 12 months; and if he is now able to announce prospects of legislation to assist all those mineworkers concerned.
§ Mr. David HuntThe National Coal Board fully maintains its policy of not making redundant any man who wishes to stay in the industry.
My right hon. Friend has already made it clear that no decisions have been made on the details of any scheme to succeed the current redundant mineworkers payments scheme. As my right hon. Friend advised the right hon. Member in the House on 25 November, he will make a statement when conclusions have been reached.