HC Deb 03 August 1965 vol 717 cc277-8W
Mr. Rowland

asked the Minister of Power if it is his intention that coal output in the West Midlands should be maintained at around the present figure for some years, as indicated in the West Midlands Regional Study.

Mr. Frederick Lee

As my right hon. Friend the Secretary of State said in reply to Questions on 26th July, the Study is not a statement of Government views or policy. The level of output in the various coalfields is a matter for the National Coal Board in the light of energy policy generally which I am reviewing in consultation with the Board and my Energy Advisory Council.