§ 38. Mr. Milneasked the Minister of Power what was the number of miners who left the industry in 1962; and if he will make a statement on the prospects of the coal industry in 1963.
§ Mr. PeytonAbout 61,000. After allowing for recruitment there was a net reduction in the labour force of about 25,000. The Board expects the progress 207W achieved in 1962 to continue in 1963. There should be a further improvement in productivity, and the Board is confident that it will achieve financial results in accordance with the objective my right hon. Friend announced to the House on 23rd July, 1962.