HC Deb 04 March 1970 vol 797 c122W
62. Mr. Dempsey

asked the Minister of Technology if, in view of the effect of an international upset on the supply of fuel oil to this country, he will take steps to treat coal as a strategic fuel: and if he will make a statement.

Mr. Alan Williams

The support given to the coal industry already ensures that coal is used to the maximum extent compatible with the national interest. The proportion of coal in total energy consumption in the United Kingdom is higher than in Japan, U.S.A., West Germany, France and Italy.