§ Mr. Hardyasked the Secretary of State for Energy what information has been given to his Department by the 135W National Coal Board concerning the prospect of colliery closures and for mining industry employment during the next two years.
§ Mr. Giles ShawThere are regular discussions between my Department and the National Coal Board on the future of the industry and in particular on the level of financial support to be provided to the board in pursuing the objectives set for it by the Government. Decisions on the steps required are a matter of management for the board and, as regards colliery closures, follow established procedures agreed with the unions. No plan for closures has been given to my Department.