To ask the President of the Board of Trade what consultations he has held about the level of coal stocks necessary under the Electricity Act 1989 for 1993–94; and if he will make a statement.

My Department is currently reviewing with the electricity generators, and with the National Grid Company which advises the President in such matters, the basis of the existing directions under sections 34 and 35 of the Electricity Act 1989 with a view to putting in place arrangements which reflects current security needs. The Government will announce in due course any revised arrangements for 1993–94 and subsequent years.