HC Deb 01 July 1980 vol 987 cc531-2W
Mr. Skinner

asked the Secretary of State for Trade how many ports presently accept shipments of foreign coal into Great Britain.

Mr. Fowler

I have been asked to reply.

In 1978 (the latest year for which complete figures are available) 45 harbour authorities and private wharves in Great Britain handled imports of foreign coal. (Source: National Ports Council port traffic statistics 1978.)

Mr. Skinner

asked the Secretary of State for Trade how many coal importing facilities are due to be constructed in Great Britain within the next three years.

Mr. Fowler

I have been asked to reply.

I understand from the National Ports Council that at present there are no plans for the construction of coal importing facilities in Great Britain within the next three years.