§ Mr. DobsonTo ask the Secretary of State for Energy what consideration he has given to the effects on the balance of trade when deciding on policy for the coal industry.
§ Mr. WakehamThis Government do not believe that it is in the long-term interests of either the coal industry or the country to restrict competition in coal supplies. To protect British Coal from competition would lead to British industry paying too much for its electricity, thereby reducing its international competitiveness; this would have serious long-term consequences for our balance of trade and employment in our manufacturing industries. The Government will therefore encourage British Coal in its efforts to become a fully competitive supplier.