HC Deb 18 February 1980 vol 979 c21W
19. Mr. John H. Osborn

asked the Secretary of State for Energy what discussions have taken place with the European Economic Commission, and with his opposite numbers in other European Economic Commission countries, for increasing the market for, and products derived from coal, ranging from smokeless solid fuels to liquefaction and hydrogeneration, having regard to the excessive dependence on oil; and if he will make a statement.

Mr. Norman Lamont

The Council of Ministers has fully recognised the vital role which coal plays in decreasing Community dependence on imported oil and a number of proposals for promoting the production and utilisation of coal are variously under consideration within the Community institutions.

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