§ Mr. Sillarsasked the Secretary of State for Energy what progress is being made in opening up export markets for Scottish coal in the EEC; what is the annual level of Scottish coal exports to the Community at the nearest available date; and how this compares with the year before entry.
§ Mr. EadieThe National Coal Board is making every effort to increase exports, and its main markets have always been322W in EEC countries. But competition is severe, particularly when demand is weak as at present, and unless prices are truly competitive there is little chance of securing new business. Scottish coal has traditionally supplied the home market and no significant quantities have been exported since 1971–72.
§ Mr. Sillarsasked the Secretary of State for Energy whether he will formally request the EEC Commission or the Council of Ministers to reduce the EEC's intake of coal from third countries in favour of Scottish coal.
§ Mr. EadieIt is agreed Community policy to allow free access to third country coal with the understanding that it should not unfairly displace indigenous Community coal. There is an arrangement for the regular monitoring of third country imports in which we participate fully. If my hon. Friend has any evidence that Scottish coal is being unfairly displaced from traditional Community outlets by third country coal perhaps he would send it to me. But the Treaty of Paris does not permit special treatment in favour of any particular coal-producing country in the European Coal and Steel Community.