Redundant Miners (Special Allowances)

Oral Answers to Questions — Technology – in the House of Commons at 12:00 am on 13 July 1970.

Alert me about debates like this

Photo of Mr Arthur Blenkinsop Mr Arthur Blenkinsop , South Shields 12:00, 13 July 1970

asked the Minister of Technology whether he will make a statement on the future of special allowances paid to redundant miners.

Photo of Mr Edward Milne Mr Edward Milne , Blyth

asked the Minister of Technology if he will make arrangements for the early introduction of a Coal Industry Bill and the continuance of the mineworkers redundancy payments scheme till 1974.

Photo of Mr Eric Ogden Mr Eric Ogden , Liverpool, West Derby

asked the Minister of Technology if he will introduce legislation to enable the British coal industry to maintain its position as the major source of fuel and power in this country.

Photo of Mr John Eden Mr John Eden , Bournemouth West

As my right hon. and learned Friend said in the debate on 9th July, high priority is being given to our consideration of this matter.—[Vol. 803, c. 883.]

Photo of Mr Arthur Blenkinsop Mr Arthur Blenkinsop , South Shields

When will the Minister make up his mind at least on the general principles, and when will the minds of those whose three years of special payments are coming to an end and those who are shortly facing the possibility of redundancy be set at rest?

Photo of Mr John Eden Mr John Eden , Bournemouth West

We are speeding this up as rapidly as possible. I am aware of the urgency of the situation, and I am anxious to meet the mineworkers' leaders, which I shall do later this week.

Photo of Mr Edward Milne Mr Edward Milne , Blyth

Is the hon. Gentleman aware of the concern in parts of the country about the solution to this problem, which is wanted earlier rather than later?

Photo of Mr John Eden Mr John Eden , Bournemouth West

Yes, I am very alive to that.

Photo of Mr Tony Benn Mr Tony Benn , Bristol South East

Will a statement be made on this before the House rises? The Bill is ready, there is no preparatory work to be done, and all that is required is a decision by the Government that the mining industry, in view of its special difficulties, is entitled to receive help on the human aspects of change.

Photo of Mr John Eden Mr John Eden , Bournemouth West

If it is at all possible I will make a statement before the House rises.

Photo of Mr David Crouch Mr David Crouch , Canterbury

In reaching his decision, will my hon. Friend remember that, in addition to economic considerations, there are also social obligations?

Photo of Mr John Eden Mr John Eden , Bournemouth West

It is that point which is causing me to give the matter such high priority.