§ Mr. HansonTo ask the President of the Board of Trade what assessment he has made of the socio-economic consequences of the closure of Point of Ayr colliery, north Wales; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. David HuntI have been asked to reply. As the hon. Gentleman will know, a review of the proposed closure of 21 pits is under way and a moratorium has been announced on these proposals while the review takes place. My Department is in discussions with the North East Wales TEC, the Welsh Development Agency and local authorities on measures to promote economic diversification and employment opportunities in the area.