HC Deb 31 July 1981 vol 9 cc579-80W
Mr. Skeet

asked the Secretary of State for Energy if he will estimate the average percentage increase or decrease in the National Coal Board's revenue and the percentage increase in the costs in the past year.

Mr. John Moore

I refer the hon. Member to the board's annual report and accounts for 1980–81, which were published on 27 July. Schedule 9 gives details of income and expenditure on revenue account.

The percentage changes in 1980–81 against 1979–80 are as follows:

1980/81 1979/80
£ million £ million per cent. change
Total sales 4,075.8 3,653.5 +11.6
Total income 4,635.3 3,862.8 +20.0
Total expenditure 4,565.8 3,835.2 +19.0

Mr. Andrew F. Bennett

asked the Secretary of State for Energy whether, in determining the level of the National Coal Board's capital allowance, he took into account discussions between the board and Stockdale Engineering (Macclesfield) Ltd., and any possibility of the board's having to buy its filters from the United States of America.

Mr. John Moore

No. It is a matter for the NCB from which sources it purchases equipment. The board makes every effort to develop the closest relationship with United Kingdom suppliers of equipment, and relies on them for a very high proportion of its total needs.