§ 23. Mr. Tim Smithasked the Secretary of State for Energy what representations he has received about the proposed closure of Teversal Colliery, North Nottinghamshire; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. BennAt its request, I met a deputation from the National Union of Mineworkers, which included representatives from its Nottinghamshire area and from the pit branch on 27th April. A representative of the National Association of Colliery Overmen Deputies and Shot-firers was also present. I was impressed by the well-argued case that they presented. I suggested that they should have further talks with the National Coal Board and that, in general, closures policy406W should be agreed between the National Coal Board and the unions. This proposal will need to be further discussed.