§ Dr. CableTo ask the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry what progress is being made with the Government's application to the European Commission for approval of financial support to the coal mining industry; and if he will make a statement.[127024]
§ Mrs. LiddellThe Government are consulting widely among producers and users of coal and other interested parties on the proposed structure of the scheme. My officials are engaged in preliminary discussions with the European Commission and we hope to be in a position to formally notify the Commission soon on our proposals to pay aid.