§ Mr. Alexander Wilsonasked the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry what discussions his Department has had with the National Coal Board about current coal deposits in the United Kingdom and about what steps can be taken in pursuit of a national energy policy to sink new pits.
§ Mr. EmeryExtensive discussions have taken place with the NCB on future coal policy. If the board sees a need for new pits it will be for it to put forward proposals in its investment programme, and to decide where these pits will be situated.
§ Mr. Alexander Wilsonasked the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry what estimates have been made of reserves of workable coal seams in the United Kingdom and in what areas; and if he will make a statement.
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§ Mr. EmeryThe NCB estimates the reserves of economically workable coal accessible to currently working collieries at 4,000 million tons. It also estimates that unproven reserves and virgin coalfields may together contain a further 12,000 million tons.
§ Mr. Alexander Wilsonasked the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry if he will give a general direction to the National Coal Board to abolish differential prices of coal to domestic consumers in the United Kingdom; and if he will make a statement.