HC Deb 12 July 1971 vol 821 cc12-3W
73. Mr. David Watkins

asked the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry when he expects to announce his decision on the public inquiry held at

Stanley, County Durham, in March, 1971, into the National Coal Board's application to conduct opencast mining operations at the Loft House site, County Durham.

Mr. Ridley

The inspector who held the inquiry fell ill shortly afterwards. He has now returned to duty, and a decision will be announced as soon as possible after the report of the inquiry has been received.