§ 9. Mr. VazTo ask the. Secretary of State for Energy what conclusions he has drawn from the energy conservation schemes in Leicester; and if he will make a statement.
§ The Minister of State, Department of Energy (Mr. Peter Morrison)I understand that the Leicester local energy action campaign has achieved a number of successes. My right hon. Friend looks forward to receiving the final report on the campaign, which I understand is due to be issued by the end of the year.
§ Mr. VazWill the Minister join me in congratulating Leicester city council and the energy consortium there on the success of the scheme? Will he assure the House that his plans for privatisation will not in any way affect the success of the scheme? In particular, will he confirm that area boards will be entitled to have the freedom to conclude contracts with the consortia, irrespective of the privatisation plans?
§ Mr. MorrisonI am delighted to agree with the hon. Gentleman about the local initiative in Leicester and to say that such initiatives have also been taken in other cities. On the second part of his question, I can confirm that that will be the case.