HC Deb 12 February 1998 vol 306 cc397-8W
Mr. Boswell

To ask the President of the Board of Trade if she will make a statement on the current situation in connection with concessionary coal allowances to miners and their families. [29071]

Mr. Battle

As I announced yesterday, it would be premature at this stage to introduce new arrangements for concessionary coal entitlements provided to former employees (and their dependants) of British Coal. I am therefore extending the consultation period for a while longer to consider all relevant issues before we make necessary changes.

My aim is to find a solution to future entitlements which is fair to all concerned, and which complies with EU legal requirements and the Fuel Agreements. I have listened to representations and the views of beneficiaries expressing concern about the entitlements, and have decided to make no change to existing entitlements while full and wide ranging consultations are in progress. Beneficiaries can be assured that they will continue to receive their present fuel type at existing tonnages while the consultations are under way.