HC Deb 09 June 1986 vol 99 c54W
Mr. Heddle

asked the Secretary of State for Energy if he will make a statement on the National Coal Board's financial limits for the current year.

Mr. Peter Walker

The NCB's recovery during 1985–86 following the NUM dispute put the board on a firmer foundation at the start of 1986–87. Lower oil prices have increased the competitive pressure on the industry. Nevertheless, I can confirm that the NCB's external financing limit for 1986–87 is £730 million, the same as the provisional figure in the 1986 public expenditure White Paper. The board's capital approval for 1986–87 is £650 million.