asked the Minister of Power what consultation he had with the Chairman of the National Coal Board before the announcement of the differential price rises in Scotland.

I would refer my hon. Friend to the reply I gave to the hon. Members for Worcestershire, South (Sir G. Nabarro) and Dumfries (Mr. Monro) today.

asked the Minister of Power what representations he has received concerning the recently increased price differential for Scottish coal; and whether, in view of the additional threat to the future of the coal industry, he will direct the National Coal Board not to proceed with such differential price increases.

A small number of representations has been made, but I believe it is right for the Board to proceed with the increases.