Backbench Business

Mr Holden argued that domestic coal production is essential for the UK’s heavy industries such as steelmaking, which would otherwise rely on imported coal from countries like Russia. He stressed the economic benefits of creating local jobs and reducing reliance on foreign imports. Mr Holden also pointed out the environmental advantages of British-produced coal over imports due to lower CO2 emissions from transportation.

Welcomed the debate, congratulated the hon. Member for North West Durham for securing it, thanked the Backbench Business Committee for allocating time. Highlighted historical significance of coal mining in his constituency and other coalfield areas. Emphasised the debt owed to miners and their communities, stressing the importance of settling historic injustices such as Mineworkers’ Pension Scheme surplus and justice for Orgreave.

Declared interest in former employment with British Steel and recent work in nuclear supply chain. Argued that UK should focus on domestic production of steel and its process components, including coking coal, to reduce carbon footprint. Advocated for the opening of Woodhouse colliery for job creation and reduced emissions compared to imports. Emphasised the importance of innovative clean technologies but also warned against expecting overnight solutions.

Praised his heritage as a former coal miner from a long line of miners, discussed the demand for steel and thus coal in infrastructure projects. Argued for mining coal domestically to save money and reduce carbon emissions compared to imports. Advocated for the Woodhouse colliery project as an example of creating jobs and boosting local economies.

The role of coal in providing energy has changed over the decades, but there is an opportunity for a just transition that supports workers and communities as coal use diminishes. Labour calls for a green recovery to create jobs and boost industries while addressing the climate emergency. We must avoid repeating past mistakes that led to economic deprivation and health issues in former mining areas.

Coal is crucial for steel production, specifically through blast furnaces requiring coking coal. The UK should remain committed to coal use in industries dependent on it until more sustainable alternatives are viable. Opening a new coalmine in the UK can help reduce environmental impact compared to importing from Russia and should be considered as part of phasing out coal in non-essential industries.

It is very important to be having the debate due to the current economic crisis and climate emergency. She acknowledges the history and impact of coal mining in her constituency, but does not see coal as a fundamental part of Britain’s energy future. Instead, she supports developing new green technologies for a sustainable economy.

Acknowledges Bassetlaw's rich mining history and the challenges faced after the decline of the coal industry. He supports moving towards clean, efficient, and renewable forms of energy while ensuring a smooth transition to new age energy generation.

Emphasises the importance of transitioning away from coal while recognising its historical significance. He supports ambitious targets for addressing climate change but emphasises the need for innovation and economic growth rather than rationing.

Commends the history of coal in the Black Country, highlighting its rich industrial heritage and the decline since the last pit closed in 1968. Emphasises the need to utilise opportunities presented by the transition towards net zero to bridge economic gaps and close an output gap of £2.6 billion. Supports the Chancellor's announcement of a £1 billion carbon capture and storage infrastructure fund, highlighting local initiatives like Thomas Dudley in Tipton and the energy waste plant in Dudley.

Supports the notion of bringing British coal back to aid UK manufacturing for global sales, reflecting on the historical significance of mining in Staffordshire. Proposes a national industrial heritage park at Chatterley Whitfield colliery to highlight nature reclaiming former coal sites and discusses a low-carbon district heating network in Stoke-on-Trent utilising geothermal energy from deep beneath the surface.

Commends the hon. Member for North West Durham and thanks the Backbench Business Committee for granting time for debate on coal's future. Emphasises Midlothian’s historical connection to coal mining, dating back to the 12th century with the first Victorian super pit still serving as a museum today. Acknowledges coal's declining role in energy generation but highlights its necessity for blast furnaces and domestic heat production among others. Points out that Scotland has not had any new unabated coal power since 2016, advocating for carbon capture technology to align with the UK’s green revolution goals. Recognises need to support industrial bases by focusing on job creation in green industries while addressing past injustices such as miners' strikes and unfair convictions during picket line disputes. Suggests innovative projects like tapping geothermal energy from disused mines could help communities transition to a low carbon economy, creating jobs and reducing fuel poverty.

Coal matters in terms of heritage, industry, identity, and future. It is a social seam that runs through communities and families, representing camaraderie and community spirit. The debate highlighted the need for justice for Orgreave and better support from the Government for fossil fuel use abroad. Labour has been key in decarbonisation efforts but more needs to be done, especially regarding new technologies. Coalfield communities are eager to play a part in achieving net zero emissions. There must be a just transition with new jobs that respect the values of coalfield communities.

Congratulated the hon. Member for Plymouth, Sutton and Devonport on his speech and recognised the history of the coal industry in Great Britain. He noted that there were eight Conservative speakers compared to three Labour speakers during the debate, which he found striking. Kwarteng acknowledged significant historical coal production figures but emphasised the need to look forward towards new technologies like carbon capture and hydrogen as part of the 10-point plan proposed by the Prime Minister.

Thanked Members from both sides for their contributions, noting that coal still has a role to play in transitioning towards a decarbonised future. He highlighted economic opportunities related to the transition, praised the importance of looking after former coalfield communities, and emphasised the need for innovation based on industrial heritage.