THE UK imports 44 million tons of coal a year. It is a vital import for our power stations.

Most of the coal comes from Russia – we are at the mercy of Putin.

Well done, Margaret Thatcher!

The only way out of this vulnerability is to become “self-sufficient” in coal again by reopening the mines in Britain. It can be done, the UK has enough coal reserves to last centuries. Also, coal can be stored safely, unlike nuclear power, which is an accident waiting to happen.

The only other point I would like to make is why are we carrying out the dangerous task of fracking when we have an abundant supply of coal waiting to be mined?

Better the devil you know.

BRIAN DUFFY
Bulan Road, Headington