§ Mrs. Helen JacksonTo ask the President of the Board of Trade what representations he has received from mining equipment manufacturing companies about the effects on export and domestic business of a programme of pit closures.
§ Mr. EggarRepresentations have been made both by a number of individual companies and their trade associations. The Government have made it clear that they will give every proper assistance to the industry, including help to build upon their impressive export record.
My hon. Friend the Minister for Trade and I intend to meet representatives from the industry again shortly.
§ Dr. WrightTo ask the President of the Board of Trade what is the total cost of the consultants' reports commissioned as part of the review of the coal industry.
§ Mr. EggarThe estimated total cost to the Department of consultants commissioned to carry out studies and advise in respect of the coal review is £1.4 million.