HC Deb 04 July 1983 vol 45 c19W
17. Mr. Allen McKay

asked the Secretary of State for Energy when he intends to call a meeting of the tripartite committee to discuss the plan for coal.

Mr. Giles Shaw

My right hon. Friend will keep this suggestion under review.

24. Mr. John Evans

asked the Secretary of State for Energy if he has any plans to meet the chairman of the National Coal Board to discuss pit closures.

Mr. Giles Shaw

My right hon. Friend and I have met Sir Norman Siddall twice in the last two weeks to discuss the coal industry; but the future of individual collieries is a matter for the board in consultation with the industry's trades unions.

25. Mr. Hardy

asked the Secretary of State for Energy what is his policy on the future size of the coal industry.

Mr. Giles Shaw

It is for the board to match the size of the coal industry to the market it can command.