HC Deb 12 May 1986 vol 97 cc331-2W
34. Mr. Willie W. Hamilton

asked the Secretary of State for Energy if he will make a statement on the effects of falling oil prices on the future of the coal industry.

Mr. Peter Walker

It is still to early to judge the likely extent and duration of the recent sharp decline in oil prices, which, together with imported coal and other fuels, have increased the competitive pressure on the NCB. It is therefore too soon to assess the implications for the future of the coal industry.