UK COAL INSOLVENCY

That this House is aware of the circumstances resulting from the insolvency of the coal production company UK Coal which caused major job losses and resulted in the reduction by at least 10 per cent of their ex-employees' and widows' pensions, and retirees' loss of concessionary coal allowances; is further aware that concessionary fuel was a historic agreement transferred under the Coal Industry Act 1994 with the protection of the TUPE agreement which gave the provision of coal to current miners, ex-miners and their widows for their lifetimes; and understands the Government’s reluctance to involve itself in the debts of this failed company, but believes it has an obligation towards those current employees, ex-employees and their widows who should be protected against such loss.