§ Mr. Malcolm BruceTo ask the Secretary of State for Energy whether he will introduce a right of appeal against refusal by British Coal of a licence to mine coal.
§ Mr. Heathcoat-AmoryThe licensing of coal production is a matter for the British Coal Corporation. However, I understand that a revised procedure against refusal of a licence has been agreed, which includes ultimate referral to an expert nominated by the Royal Institute of Chartered Surveyors, who will be expected to report with recommendations to the corporation. The final decision, however, must rest with British Coal, as the licensing authority.