HC Deb 13 July 1970 vol 803 c117W
Mr. Kelley

asked the Minister of Technology if he will continue the present assistance to the coal industry to ease the burdens of contraction.

Mr. Skinner

asked the Minister of Technology if he is aware that the National Union of Mineworkers at its annual conference this week will require information on the Government's policy on compensation for redundant miners in order to reach decisions affecting the future of the industry; and if he will make an early statement on the matter.

Sir J. Eden

The powers in the Coal Industry Act 1967 do not expire until March 1971. As I told the hon. Members for South Ayrshire (Mr. Sillars) and South Shields (Mr. Blenkinsop) on 6th July, the question of extending them is being considered as a matter of urgency.