§ 2. Mr. Martyn JonesTo ask the Secretary of State for Wales how many planning applications there are for wind generating plants in (a) Clwyd, (b) Wales and (c) areas of outstanding natural beauty.
§ The Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Wales (Mr. Gwilym Jones)The information is not held centrally.
§ Mr. Martyn JonesI am sad about that, but I happen to know that there are a good many applications in my constituency and, indeed, throughout Wales.
Given that wind generation is only a modest performer in terms of energy production compared with other sustainable forms but has a huge visual' impact on the environment and the amenity value of our countryside, will the Minister give me an assurance that when any of those applications are appealed against—if they are turned down by local authorities—his right hon. Friend the Secretary of State will refuse them on appeal?
§ Mr. Gwilym JonesI certainly cannot give the hon. Gentleman such an assurance. All cases must be considered individually, on their merits. We and the local planning authority will naturally seek to take into account all the relevant factors, including noise and siting. It is our policy to encourage wind power where it is economically attractive and environmentally acceptable.