§ Mr. GibbTo ask the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry how many applications have been received under the UK Coal Operating Aid Scheme. [135051]
§ Mrs. LiddellBy Wednesday 25 October, applications had been received by the DTI in respect of the listed eight production units:
- Scottish Coal/Longannet
- Hatfield
- RJB/Selby Complex
- Blenkinsopp
- RJB/Harworth
- RJB/Maltby
- RJB/Rossington
- RJB/Welbeck.
An up-to-date list of applications is given on the DTI web site at: http://www2.dti.gov.uk/support/appaid.htm
§ Mr. GibbTo ask the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry when he will publish the Statutory Instrument on the UK Coal Operating Aid Scheme. [135052]
§ Mrs. LiddellA Statutory Instrument on the UK Coal Operating Aid Scheme will not be required.
Copies of the scheme are available in the House Library, or on the DTI website at the following address: http://www2.dti.gov.uk/support/coal.htm.
Under the provisions of the Industrial Development Act the excess of any payment of aid over £10 million will require authorisation by a resolution of the Commons. We are waiting for the European Commission's approval of our Coal Operating Aid Scheme. If such approval is granted, we will then seek any necessary Commons authorisation.