HC Deb 05 May 2000 vol 349 cc235-6W
Mr. Redwood

To ask the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry under which programmes he plans to pay grant to the coal industry in the next two years. [120817]

Mr. Byers

As this is a new scheme, a separate programme will be established.

Mr. Redwood

To ask the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry when he plans to discuss grants to the coal industry with the EU. [120818]

Mr. Byers

Discussions have already taken place and will continue.

Mr. Redwood

To ask the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry when he will announce the amount of grant that is available for the coal industry over the next two years; and what factors will determine the level of grant to be paid. [120819]

Mr. Byers

I refer the right hon. Member to my statement to the House on 17 April 2000,Official Report, column 697.