HC Deb 12 March 1968 vol 760 cc244-5W
23. Mr. Brewis

asked the Minister of Power what detailed estimates he has made of the increased cost to the National Coal Board of mechanical and electrical mining systems for which contracts have already been placed, and for which contracts are not on a fixed basis, as a result of the abnormal load charges in the Transport Bill.

Mr. Freeson

I understand from the National Coal Board that only a small number of contracts might be affected. The increased cost would be very small.

Mr. Lane

asked the Minister of Power what is his estimate of the extra costs per annum of the distribution of oil products in the United Kingdom if the Transport Bill becomes law in its present form.

Mr. Marsh

Perhaps £1¼ million to £1½ million in the first full year.

Mr. G. Campbell

asked the Minister of Power what estimates he has made of the increase in costs to the steel industry in Scotland of the current proposals in the Transport Bill.

Mr. Freeson

I regret that separate figures are not readily available for Scotland.