Energy Efficiency (Hansard, 1 November 1993)

§ 7. Mr. Dafis
To ask the Secretary of State for Wales how much money has been allocated by his Department to promote energy efficiency within housing in Wales in each of the last five years.

§ Mr. Gwilym Jones
It is for local councils to decide how much of the money that is given to them is allocated to energy efficiency schemes for housing.

§ Mr. Dafis
That is a disappointing response. I hope that, following the remarkable rally on Saturday in Cardiff by Friends of the Earth, the Minister recognises that there is now a formidable coalition in favour of energy efficiency, from social and environmental groups that see the issue as not only addressing the problem of pollution, but enabling people to bring about reductions of as much as 30 per cent. in their fuel bills, while providing important savings in other areas. Will the Minister now join me in congratulating neighbourhood energy action and its contractors on its excellent work? Does he agree that there needs to be a comprehensive programme in the area, which should be a central issue of economic policy as a way in which to bring it to fruition?

§ Mr. Jones
I should thank the hon. Gentleman for effectively endorsing the lead that my right hon. Friend the Prime Minister gave at the Earth summit in Rio. It behoves all of us to achieve energy efficiency, in the interests of Britain and of the globe generally.

Mr. Alan W. Williams
Rather than putting VAT on fuel and causing hypothermia among elderly people in the winter, why do not the Government introduce a comprehensive home insulation programme? It would have a rapid payback, in perhaps four or five years, and it would help to keep people warm in the winter rather than cause hardship.

§ Mr. Jones
I can reassure the hon. Gentleman that we are already seeking to carry out such a programme. In our estates partnership programme, it is a requirement that energy efficiency should be considered. Housing for Wales is this week publishing a new consultation document which looks for improved energy efficiency schemes in housing association developments.