§ Mr. Alex CarlileTo ask the President of the Board of Trade what representations he has received from companies expressing an interest in taking over production of coal at the Betws colliery in Ammanford; when he received these representations; and if he will ensure that the pit is maintained whilst these representations are being considered.
§ Mr. EggarSince the announcement of the proposed closures in October 1992, my Department has received three representations from companies which may be interested in taking over the operation of Betws. British Coal has given assurances that the fabric of the pit will be maintained so that if, following the consultation process at present under way, it is decided to keep it open, that will be possible. We will need to consider the position again once the outcome of the consultations is known.