§ Mr. Alex CarlileTo ask the Secretary of State for Wales if he will make a statement on his Department's policy towards proposals for the construction of wind farms in rural Wales.
§ Mr. David HuntThe Government wish to exploit the development of renewable energy resources wherever they are environmentally and economically acceptable. The policy of encouraging renewables is being carried forward in two principal ways: first, through a Government-funded research, development and demonstration programme; and, secondly, by removing institutional barriers to the renewables, for example by introducing the Non-Fossil Fuel Obligation Renewables Order. We intend to issue a draft planning policy guidance note on renewable energy, including wind farms, for public consultation later this month.