§ Viscount Hanworthasked Her Majesty's Government:
Whether they consider that the closure of deep-mined coal pits is due to the privatisation of the electricity industry, as a result of which they can no longer control the import of coal from overseas or compel the maximum use of coal-fired power stations.
§ Lord StrathclydeThe aim of the Government's energy policy is to ensure secure, diverse and sustainable supplies of energy in the forms that people and businesses want, and at competitive prices. The Government firmly believe that aim will be achieved most fully through the mechanisms of the market.
The new structure of the electricity industry contains the key elements necessary for a successful, competitive industry. Competition has been introduced; new generators are coming into the system; and there is strong, independent regulation.
The size of the coal industry depends on its success in further reducing costs and in meeting the requirement of its customers. The Government consider that the best prospect for the industry lies in the private sector and are therefore committed to bringing forward the privatisation legislation as rapidly as possible.