HC Deb 20 December 1984 vol 70 cc280-1W
Mr. Allen McKay

asked the Secretary of State for Energy what criteria are used to determine whether a mining area is eligible for assistance from the National Coal Board enterprise scheme.

Mr. David Hunt

Allocation of the resources available to NCB (Enterprise) Ltd. is a matter for the new company. The National Coal Board has stated that the pupose of the company is to help create new business opportunities and provide alternative jobs in coal industry areas were unemployment is already substantial.

Mr. Allen McKay

asked the Secretary of State for Energy if the Barnsley metropolitan council area will qualify for assistance under the National Coal Board enterprise scheme.

Mr. David Hunt

Allocation of the resources available to NCB (Enterprise) Ltd. is a matter for the new company. I shall ask the chairman to write to the hon. Member.