§ Mr. LofthouseTo ask the Secretary of State for Energy what studies he has carried out regarding the effect of the privatisation of the electricity supply industry on British Coal; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. Michael SpicerSince it has responsibility for the coal industry, my Department naturally monitors closely and continuously the implications for British Coal of electricity privatisation.
§ Mr. Malcolm BruceTo ask the Secretary of State for Energy if he will make a statement on European Community investigations into the nuclear provisions in the electricity privatisation.
§ Mr. Michael SpicerThe Government have kept the EC Commission fully informed of their proposals relating to the privatisation of the electricity industry. The dialogue is continuing. We are confident that the arrangements for the new industry will be consistent with the United Kingdom's Community obligations.