HC Deb 08 April 1974 vol 872 c9W
Mr. Hardy

asked the Secretary of State for Energy if he will provide an estimate of the value on current prices of the coal reserves remaining in Yorkshire and in the Selby coalfield.

Mr. Eadie

The latest estimate made by the National Coal Board of proven economically workable reserves in Yorkshire, made a year ago, was 1,200 miilion tons This estimate is being reviewed to take account of changed circumstances. No realistic estimate can yet be given for the Selby field as further exploratory work is required to establish the full size of the economically workable reserves.

The average realisation price for Yorkshire coal was £6.80p per ton in January 1974. The price of Yorkshire coal was increased by about 48 per cent. on 1st April.