10. Mr. Tom Ellisasked the Secretary of State for Energy how many applications have so far been received under the scheme launched on 22 May for converting or replacing oil-fired boilers with coal-fired boilers.
§ Mr. John MooreQuestions on the operation of that scheme are chiefly a matter for my right hon. Friend the Secretary of State for Industry. I have been informed, however, that the Department of Industry has received more than 1,000 inquiries for information about the scheme.
Mr. EllisIn view of that rather heartening response to the scheme, what are the Department's estimates of the full take-up of the grant available, and when is it likely to be fully taken up?
§ Mr. MooreI cannot comment on the details. If the grant is fully taken up we expect an initial potential coal burn of 2 million tonnes per annum. Any detailed queries must be addressed to my right hon. Friend the Secretary of State for Industry.
§ Mr. HardyWill the Minister confirm that the money allotted in the Budget for that purpose may be exhausted before the period has elapsed and assure us that additional funds will be available so that all applicants can be properly considered?
§ Mr. MooreIt would be nice if we could first spend the money allocated before going on. My right hon. Friend the Secretary of State for Industry will review the scope and coverage of the scheme in the light of the take-up of funds available.