§ 46. Mr. Youngerasked the Minister of Power what representations he has received about the level of current and future supplies of coke; and whether he will make a statement.
§ Mr. FreesonFrom discussions with coke producers and distributors, I understand supplies should be adequate. Total consumption of gas coke and hard coke by industry is estimated at about 13 million tons in 1969 and in 1970.
Mr. Edward M. Taylorasked the Minister of Power whether he is satisfied that in each of the next five years the supply of coking coal, from home sources and from overseas, will be adequate to meet the demand; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. FreesonThe National Coal Board is confident that home production will be adequate for the foreseeable future.
§ Mr. Eadieasked the Minister of Power if he is satisfied that demands of industry for coke will be met this year; and what is the anticipated demand in tons this year and next.
§ Mr. FreesonI would refer my hon. Friend to my reply to the hon. Member for Ayr (Mr. Younger) earlier today.
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§ Mr. Eadieasked the Minister of Power which collieries which produce coking coal in Scotland, England and Wales are threatened with closure; what is the present production of each; what is the production forecast for this year and next; and in which areas they are situated.
§ Mr. FreesonI understand from the National Coal Board that eight collieries producing coking coal have formally been placed in jeopardy. In Scotland they are Cardowan and Kingshill No. 3 (Scottish North and Scottish South areas respectively); in England—Metal Bridge and Thornley (in South Durham area), Hickleton (in Doncaster area) and in the East Wales area—Penallta, Celynen South and Nantgarw. I am asking the Chairman of the board to write to my hon. Friend about present and forecast production.