§ Mr. Mason asked the Secretary of State for Trade if a decision has been taken to refer the National Coal Board's industrial and financial performance to the Monopolies and Mergers Commission for investigation; if so, what are the reasons for the reference; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. Biffen [pursuant to the reply 21 October 1981]: The Government's policy is to have a systematic programme under which the efficiency and costs of nationalised industries are routinely examined from time to time by the MMC, under s. 11 of the Competition Act 1980. Investigations into aspects of the rail, electricity and water industries have already been completed and an inquiry into certain bus undertakings is in progress. I am currently considering the terms of reference under which the efficiency and costs of the National Coal Board might be investigated.