§ Mr. BerminghamTo ask the Secretary of State for Energy what are the current propects for the Severn barrage scheme in view of latest calculations on generation costs; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. Michael SpicerThe studies on the Severn barrage are nearing completion, and a report is expected in a few months. The report will not include financing and related issues, which will be addressed in the timescale of electricity privatisation. Prospects for a barrage scheme will be a matter for commercial judgment under the terms of the Electricity Bill before the House. It would therefore be inappropriate for me to comment at this stage.