A top Conservative minister supports plans to bring mining back to Copeland.

Liam Fox, who was appointed the Secretary of State for International Trade last year, visited Whitehaven today to look at the proposals by West Cumbria Mining.

The plans would see coking coal being extracted off the coast of St Bees, with a processing plant on the former Marchon site at Kells.

Dr Fox toured West Cumbria Mining at Haig Museum with Trudy Harrison, Conservative candidate for Copeland.

He said: “It’s a great example of what can happen in terms of regeneration, to help the local economy to help local retail, local housing and local jobs.

“It’s at the top ends of spec in terms of environmental protection and worker safety. It’s well integrated into the transport network to help the UK economy with vital exports. All in all exactly what the country needs.

“This is exactly the sort of project that we want to see. It’s forward looking. It’s high reaching.”

He said the project has been thought through, adding: “I wish it all the success.”

Dr Fox says he has visited Whitehaven previously, many years ago, and was happy to return for today's visit.

“I love this part of the country. It’s an untouched gem of the UK,” he said.

Mrs Harrison said Dr Fox’s visit was very important as she is pledging support for road and rail infrastructure which would be affected if these plans go ahead.

“Moving forward we have a fantastic opportunity here in Copeland to export knowledge and products,” she added.

Colin Sharpe, supply chain manager at West Cumbria Mining, said: “To have the secretary of state for international trade and the president on the board of trade is so significant as this project entirely supports his remit.

“It will be a significant contributor to our export trade and at the same time support a whole host of jobs.”