HC Deb 24 June 1985 vol 81 cc621-2
5. Mr. Knox

asked the Secretary of State for Energy whether he is satisfied with progress towards the development of a European Community energy policy.

Mr. Goodlad

We are now satisfied that progress is being made.

Mr. Knox

Does my hon. Friend realise that some of us feel that progress has been disappointingly slow so far? Do the Government intend to take any initiative to try to speed up progress in achieving such a policy?

Mr. Goodlad

I note my hon. Friend's view. Community energy objectives provide a framework for national energy programmes and actions. This country's policies have made a major contribution to improving the Community's energy position. We share the Commission's view that we need to continue with effective policies for the future.

Mr. John David Taylor

Will the Minister confirm reports that the French authorities have offered to provide cheaper electricity by cable to the United Kingdom? If so, what is the Government's response?

Mr. Goodlad

The Central Electricity Generating Board and EDF have agreed to construct a 2,000 MW cross-Channel link. The first half will be available later this year, and the second half a year later. The CEGB has agreed with EDF the commercial arrangements for the operation of the first half of the link during the first two years. There are no agreements covering the period after that.

Mr. Beaumont-Dark

Could my hon. Friend translate into one of the European languages what he means by "progress"? How much progress, how much cost and how long?

Mr. Goodlad

I understand that the rules of the House forbid me to translate into foreign languages.

Mr. Rowlands

The Minister might try Welsh, and he might get away with it. Is he aware that the Secretary of State has given repeated assurances that he will not allow the Commission to interfere in the financing and subsidising of the national coal industry in the United Kingdom? Is he further aware that there is an attempt to dilute the national veto over several areas in the EEC context which are to be discussed in the next few weeks? Will the hon. Gentleman assure us that it will remain the right of our Government to decide on the subsidising and financing of the National Coal Board?

Mr. Goodlad

Yes, Sir. No Commission proposals have been received yet, although, as the hon. Gentleman knows, new Community legislation will be required by the end of the year to regulate national aids for coal. Otherwise, they would breach the European Coal and Steel Community treaty. My right hon. Friend the Secretary of State has already told Commissioner Mosar that the proposals will have to reflect the interests of the major coal-producing member states. Energy programmes carried out under article 235 require unanimous Council agreement. The ECSC treaty contains provision for majority voting in some cases. However, any decision to replace the existing state aids regime would require Council unanimity.