§ 8. Mr. Edward Leigh (Gainsborough) (Con)What steps (a) Ofgem and (b) Oftel are taking in response to the 50th report of the Committee of Public Accounts in Session 2001–02 on pipes and wires (i) to simplify the information requirements they place on companies and (ii) to change the period over which price reviews are conducted. [143326]
§ The Secretary of State for Trade and Industry (Ms Patricia Hewitt)Both regulators have taken steps to minimise the information requests that they make, consistent with the need to regulate effectively. Both regulators need to allow time for the conducting of price reviews, so that they can get the necessary information and allow for adequate public consultation and for the possibility of appeal.
§ Mr. LeighIs the Secretary of State satisfied that Ofgem pays sufficient regard to companies' investment needs when it sets price controls in order to maintain electricity supplies at all times?
§ Ms HewittYes, I am. Indeed, as the hon. Gentleman will be aware, investment in the electricity network has gone up significantly since privatisation, contrary to the allegations that were made on last night's BBC programme. Ensuring that price controls allow for adequate investment is a matter that my hon. Friend the Minister for Energy, E-Commerce and Postal Services and I regularly discuss with Ofgem.