Mid-Scotland and Fife MSP Murdo Fraser was in Glasgow today taking part in a cross-party taskforce working to ensure the future of open cast coal mining in Scotland.
In April Scottish Coal was placed into administration, resulting in the loss of over 600 jobs.
Last week in Parliament, Fergus Ewing MSP announced he would convene a cross-party taskforce charged with securing the long term future of the industry in Scotland.
Commenting Murdo Fraser MSP said:
“As it stands there are two main priorities for the industry, firstly the Scottish Government must provide the right level of support for those who have been made redundant and secondly the liquidator must be helped in finding a buyer for the remaining assets.
“Open cast mining in Scotland still has a future, but it is up to the Scottish Government to provide the correct structures to ensure that very future.
“Low world coal prices have been blamed for Scottish Coal’s current troubles.
“However, demand in the BRIC countries coupled with Germany’s increasing consumption, with six new coal power stations to open this year could drive a resurgence in coal prices.
“It must not be forgotten that coal is responsible for 40% of Scotland’s electricity and is integral to a balanced energy generation mix.”