§ Mr. Llew SmithTo ask the President of the Board of Trade what discussions he has had with(a) the Trades Union Congress and (b) the National Economic Development Council over the coal pit closure programme.
§ Mr. EggarMy right hon. Friend the President of the Board of Trade announced on 21 October that he has put 949W in hand a full and wide-ranging review of the prospects for the 21 pits proposed for closure by British Coal but not subject to the statutory consultation currently being undertaken by British Coal. He made it clear that consultation will take place with all the principal providers and consumers of energy, the trades unions and other interested parties.
§ Mr. Llew SmithTo ask the President of the Board of Trade what calculation he has made on the effect on the balance of trade of the pit closure programme.
§ Mr. EggarPit closures that correctly reflect lower demand for coal will have little effect on the balance of trade.
§ Mr. Austin MitchellTo ask the President of the Board of Trade what consultations he has had with the National Rivers Authority about the pollution consequences of pit closures.
§ Mr. EggarNone. There is regular liaison between British Coal and the National Rivers Authority at local and regional levels on all issues relevant to the National River Authority's responsibilities for regulating water pollution.
§ Mrs. DunwoodyTo ask the President of the Board of Trade how many coal mining pits have been closed in the last five years.