§ Mr. Skeetasked the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry whether the National Coal Board is eligible for grants of public funds under the Industry Act, 1972; or under what legislative process the Board is authorised to draw funds for purposes similar to those contemplated in the 1972 Act.
§ Mr. ChatawayRegional development grants are available to the board in respect of its main activity and any other qualifying activity in which it is engaged. The board also receives help under the Coal Industry Acts. Selective assistance under the Industry Act would not normally be appropriate for the nationalised industries for whom other forms of help are available, but the possibility of its use is not ruled out if particular circumstances arose to justify it.