§ 43. Mr. Malcolm BruceTo ask the Secretary of State for Energy what plans he has to increase the priority given to the protection of the environment in his Department's activities.
§ Mr. ParkinsonI fully recognise that all forms of energy production and use have environmental implications. Accordingly, my Department attaches high priority to promoting measures which will minimise those environmental consequences while maintaining diversity of supply. Relevant programmes include: promotion of energy efficiency; endorsement of the CEGB's major programmes to install SO2 and NOx emission controls; the proposed non-fossil fuel obligation for the privatised electricity supply industry; support for nuclear power and continued development of commercially viable alternative and renewable energy sources; and preparation of full environmental assessments for all major energy projects with significant environmental impact. Increasing international understanding of the environmental implications of energy production will continue to be reflected in all aspects of my Department's activites.