§ Mr. Alex CarlileTo ask the Secretary of State for Wales what is his policy in respect of the construction of opencast coal mines in sites of special scientific interest, with particular reference to the proximity of national parks; what such proposals he has recently received; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. RedwoodMinerals Planning Guidance Note 3, "Opencast Coal Mining", advises that opencast coal proposals in sites of special scientific interest or affecting national parks should be subject to a most rigorous examination. Currently there are no proposals before me for determination.