HC Deb 03 November 1992 vol 213 cc134-5W
Mr. Mackinlay

To ask the Prime Minister what policy the Government have adopted towards the complaint made by British Coal to the European Commission, on the basis of the Commission's anti-dumping rules, about the importation of Colombian coal into the United Kingdom.

Mr. Madden

To ask the Prime Minister what action he has taken to expedite an investigation by the European Commission into complaints by British Coal that supplies of Colombian coal to the United Kingdom constitute dumping; when inquiries into the complaint were undertaken; when the inquiry into the complaint will be complete and made public; and if he will make a statement.

The Prime Minister

[holding answer 29 October 1992]: British Coal's anti-dumping complaint to the European Commission against imports of coal from Colombia, the United States and China is a matter for the Commission to consider. The Government look to the Commission to take seriously its responsibilities in this area and therefore to consider British Coal's complaint carefully. I understand that the Commission has not yet taken a decision on whether to open an investigation.

Mr. O'Neill

To ask the Prime Minister what undertakings have been given to the Colombian Government by the British Government on British Coal's anti-dumping petition currently before the European Commission.

The Prime Minister

[holding answer 30 October 1992]: None.

Mr. Madden

To ask the Prime Minister on what dates he had meetings with representatives of the Government of Colombia at which the sale and supply of Colombian coal to the United Kingdom was discussed; and if he will make a statement.

The Prime Minister

[holding answer 29 October 1992]: I have nothing further to add to the answer that I gave to the hon. Member for Clackmannan (Mr. O'Neill) earlier today.

Mr. Mackinlay

To ask the Prime Minister if he discussed the importation of Colombian coal during his last visit to that country.

The Prime Minister

[holding answer 29 October 1992]: I have nothing further to add to the answer that I gave to the hon. Member for Clackmannan (Mr. O'Neill) earlier today.

Mr. Fatchett

To ask the Prime Minister what discussions he had in June with the President of Colombia, Cesar Gaviria, on the market for Colombian coal in the United Kingdom; and if he will make a statement.

The Prime Minister

[holding answer 29 October 1992]: I have nothing further to add to the answer that I gave to the hon. Member for Clackmannan (Mr. O'Neill) earlier today.