To ask the Secretary of State for Energy when he appointed a new chairman of British Coal; what terms of reference he gave him regarding the future of the industry; and what will be his yearly salary.

The new chairman of British Coal, Neil Clarke, was appointed from 1 January 1991. In accordance with the normal arrangements for nationalised industries his objectives are being agreed with him and these will be announced in the near future. Mr. Clarke's salary is £225,000 per annum. The appointment is not pensionable and his remuneration therefore includes an element in lieu of pension.