HC Deb 22 December 1983 vol 51 c357W
Mr. Skeet

asked the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry if he will make a statement about the future of the coal-firing scheme.

Mr. Tebbit

The coal-firing scheme has now been extended for a further year and an additional allocation of £25 million has been made. All applications received by 31 December 1984 will be considered, provided that the financial allocation does not become exhausted. Exchange risk cover will also continue to be available on ECSC loans for conversion to coal from gas or oil. The Commission of the European Communities is being informed of these changes.