§ Mr. RowlandsTo ask the Secretary of State for Wales if he will consider restoring to the people of Aberfan the sums taken from them in 1968 towards the cost of removing coal tips above the village. [12269]
§ Mr. Ron DaviesI have long made clear my view that there should have been no requirement in the first place for a contribution to be made from the disaster fund toward the costs of clearing the tips.
I am pleased to announce today that I shall be making available a grant of £150,000 to repay the sum originally contributed and to supplement provision in the Aberfan disaster fund and in the memorial charity. My Department will be discussing with the trustees how this money can best be spent for the benefit of the community of Aberfan.