HC Deb 02 November 1989 vol 159 c462
14. Mr. Foulkes

To ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland if he will make a statement on progress in the development of Kilroot phase II.

Mr. Needham

Northern Ireland Electricity has been authorised to proceed with the necessary preliminary work, but it has not yet been decided when construction should start.

Mr. Foulkes

Is the Minister aware that there has been an exceptionally high increase in electricity sales by Northern Ireland Electricity? In view of that, when will the decision be made about funding the extension to Kilroot, which is vital not just for Northern Ireland, but for Ayrshire open-cast coal and the port of Ayr?

Mr. Needham

I understand the hon. Gentleman's constituency interest in this subject. We must consider carefully whether we should fit flue gas desulphurisation at Kilroot II and whether we could have an interconnection with Scotland, which would benefit Scotland also. I need to ensure that we do not import Ayrshire coal only to send it back to Scotland as acid rain. I accept that Kilroot II is important. Preliminary planning work is continuing and I shall make an announcement on it as soon as I can.