§ Mr. Michael Brownasked the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland if he intends to enter into negotiations with the Government of the Republic of Ireland with a view to establishing a common energy policy for the whole of Ireland.
§ Mr. Giles ShawNorthern Ireland's energy problems will in general continue to be considered within the context of energy policy for the whole of the United Kingdom. However, as the communiqué issued after the Prime Minister's meeting with Mr. Haughey on 8 December made clear, we look forward to closer co-operation on energy and other matters with the Republic of Ireland and there have already been discussions at ministerial and official level on matters of common interest relating to electricity and gas.