To ask the Secretary of State for the Environment when he expects to announce the result of the public inquiry into the Opencast Executive's application to mine the Lomax site in Greater Manchester; and if he will make a statement.

[holding answer 20 May 1988]: My right hon. Friend expects to receive the report on the inquiry into British Coal's proposals for the Lomax site in the very near future. Following consideration of the report he will reach his decision as soon as possible, and the hon. Member will be notified of the decision.