Power Station Coal Stocks

HC Deb 22 January 1974 vol 867 cc264-5W

Mr. Deakins

asked the Minister for Energy what percentage of coal-fired power stations have less than eight weeks' stocks of coal.

Mr. Emery

This is a matter for the CEGB, and I shall ask the chairman to write to the hon. Member.

Mr. Meacher

asked the Minister for Energy what has been the level of power station coal stocks for each week since 1st October.

Mr. Patrick Jenkin

On 6th, 13th, 20th and 27th October 1973, stocks were 20.3 million, 20.1 million, 19.8 million and 19.6 million tons respectively. Stocks up to 5th January were given in an answer to the hon. Member on 15th January.—[Vol. 867, c.51–3.] The most up-to-date information on coal stocks is published in the weekly Press statement of the Department of Energy. Copies are held in the Library of the House.

Mr. Spearing

asked the Minister for Energy if he will now publish in full the assumptions, contingencies, calculations and figures contained in both the request of the Government and the reply from CEGB, or his own information, referred to in the paragraph headed "Critical Coal Stock Level" in the Press notice of the Department of Trade and Industry of 1st January 1974.

Mr. David Howell

The statement issued by my hon. Friend the then Minister for Industry on 1st January 1974 explained the situation that would have developed if the Government had not taken action. The calculations were based on the CEGB's assessment of anticipated coal burn and expected fuel deliveries.