§ Mr. Skinnerasked the Secretary of State for Energy whether he will provide additional finance to the National Coal Board in order that it can implement the mineworkers' early retirement scheme in respect of surface workers.
§ Mr. John MooreThe mineworkers' voluntary early retirement scheme is negotiated between the National Coal Board and the National Union of Mineworkers, and is wholly financed by the board. It is for the board and the NUM to consider any amendments to the scheme.