HC Deb 10 November 1975 vol 899 cc912-4
15. Mr. Michael McNair-Wilson

asked the Secretary of State for Energy what is his Department's most up-to-date estimate of fuel saving as a result of the "Save It" advertising campaign.

30. Mr. Corbett

asked the Secretary of State for Energy whether he is satisfied with the progress of Her Majesty's Government's "Save It" campaign; and if he will make a statement.

Mr. Eadie

It is obviously not possible to assess precisely the energy savings achieved by the "Save It" advertising campaign, which is only one of a number of factors affecting total energy consumption. However, I am satisfied that it is playing a valuable part in changing attitudes towards the use of energy and encouraging its more efficient and economic use.

Mr. McNair-Wilson

Why has so little of the campaign been beamed at the motorist? As it is now nearly a year since the Minister introduced the package, can the hon. Gentleman say what effect the speed limits have had in reducing our imports of motor fuel?

Mr. Eadie

I am pleased to give the hon. Gentleman information about this matter. It is one of a number of factors affecting energy consumption. It is impossible to isolate or quantify the effects. However, motor spirit deliveries in August fell by nearly 7 per cent. compared with the previous August, despite the good weather.

Mr. Corbett

Does my hon. Friend accept that one of the major values of the "Save It" advertising campaign has been in giving practical advice on small ways in which consumers can save energy? Will he therefore consider a Christmas edition of that advertisement?

Mr. Eadie

I have said repeatedly from the Dispatch Box that we are not proud concerning ideas for conservation and saving. We shall consider my hon. Friend's suggestion.

Mr. Rost

When will the Government follow their advertising campaign with a longer-term strategy, with a longer-term target and with a proper budget, and adopt some of the recommendations of the Select Committee on Science and Technology on energy conservation?

Mr. Eadie

I fully understand the point made by the hon. Gentleman. We are giving consideration to the Committee's report. No doubt my right hon. Friend will announce to the House, in due time, his considered view.

Dr. Edmund Marshall

In view of the effect of the "Save It" campaign on the demand for electricity and the levels of employment in the electricity supply industry, will the Government maintain close contact with representatives of the industry, to minimise any employment difficulties that may arise?

Mr. Eadie

My hon. Friend has already made the employment position clear to people associated with the industry. We are aware of what can be described as short-term considerations, but, in general, energy conservation must be a long-term strategy and that is what the Government intend to pursue.

Sir Anthony Royle

Is the Minister aware that the 50 mph limit on main roads is increasingly being ignored? What consultations is he having with his hon. Friends who are responsible for transport with a view to lifting this speed limit, which is now totally out of date?

Mr. Eadie

We do not intend to abandon these measures. The hon. Gentleman is suggesting that the law is being broken by drivers. I was able to inform his hon. Friend of the substantial savings and reduction in the consumption of motor spirit, which leads us to believe—I hope he will agree—that most drivers are law-abiding people.