The statement of intent identifies various areas of potential collaboration, including mining education and training, mine safety, mine site rehabilitation and regeneration, and clean coal associated subjects, Dow Jones reported.

Britain and Queensland already share a significant trading relationship, British High Commissioner Alastair Goodlad said in Brisbane.

He said Britain exported A$387 million of goods to Queensland in 2003, while the state had return sales of $660 million, including $153 million of coal, $134 million of lead and $24 million of zinc.

Much of the heavy machinery used in the majority of underground coal mines in Queensland is manufactured in Britain, such as longwall mining systems, shearers and hydraulic roof supports, he said.

British-made communications equipment, flame-proof electric motors, conveyor belts, pump stations and personal safety equipment are used in the state’s mines.