§ Mr. Wigleyasked the Secretary of State for Energy what discussions he has had with the National Coal Board regarding the ANCIT process; whether he can give an assurance that if this process is adopted it will facilitate the reopening of at least one coking plant; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. EadieWe have had no discussions with the National Coal Board regarding the ANCIT process, but we understand from the board that one of its wholly-owned subsidiaries—NCB (Coal Products) Ltd.—has had under consideration for some time the possibility of the manufacture of smokeless briquettes by this process. If it is decided to proceed an experimental plant will be constructed, probably at Markham, near Doncaster, the site of a closed briquetting works.