§ Caroline FlintTo ask the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry when he will publish the report by International Mining Consultants Ltd., prepared as part of the Review of Energy Sources for Power Generation, on the prospects for coal production in the United Kingdom for the next 20 years. [78859]
§ Mr. BattleI have today placed a copy of the Report in the Libraries of both Houses of Parliament.
This report is a thorough, technical engineering study of the British coal-mining industry. It assesses geological conditions and other extraction issues, to estimate production prospects and costs for coal in the UK. Though it does not attempt to predict the market conditions for coal, it will provide a valuable reference point for all those involved in the industry.
The report should be seen against the background of the measures the Government are taking to remove distortions in the UK electricity market, which will ensure a level playing field for all fuels. The coal industry is getting fairness, not favours—which is what they asked for. The reform programme under way includes:
- working on the reform of the electricity trading arrangements in England and Wales;
- seeking practical opportunities for divestment by major coal-fired generators;
- pressing ahead with competition in electricity supply for all customers;
- separating supply and distribution in electricity markets.
- resolving the technical issues about the growth of gas, including the proper remuneration of flexible plant; and
- continuing to press for open energy markets in Europe.