Orders of the Day — Energy

Part of the debate – in the House of Commons at 12:00 am on 25 February 1975.

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Photo of Mr Eric Varley Mr Eric Varley , Chesterfield 12:00, 25 February 1975

It is the Government's intention to ensure as far as possible that the coal industry and all fuel industries keep competitive. We have said again and again that we want to phase out subsidies. I am surprised if the hon. Gentleman is returning to the question of wages and the mining industry, because only last week when we debated this matter the hon. Member for New Forest (Mr. McNair-Wilson), in opening his speech, said The Secretary of State need have no fears about my indulging in any attacks upon the wage award made to the mining industry."—[Official Report, 19th February 1975; Vol. 886, c. 1357.] I have just been asked about policies. I hope that the Opposition will not change policies within a few days.