§ Mr. SalmondTo ask the President of the Board of Trade what account is taken of the offset against oil taxation of the cost to the consortium of offshore transportation of gas from off Aberdeen, through the central area transmission system, in Government comparisons of the relative costs of gas and coal-fired electricity; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. EggarAs I announced on 26 October, my Department's review of the prospects for the 21 pits proposed for closure by British Coal, but not subject to the current statutory consultation, will consider the consequences of the switch to gas in power generation and the relative costs of gas and coal-fired generation. All relevant elements contributing to these costs will be taken into account.