HC Deb 11 January 2000 vol 342 c139W
Mr. Alan Simpson

To ask the Secretary of State for Health what assessment he has made of the relative cost-effectiveness of treating cold-related illnesses through the eradication of fuel poverty via energy efficiency improvements. [100820]

Yvette Cooper

Through the introduction of the New Home Energy Efficiency Scheme and other initiatives, we are working to combat fuel poverty. Energy efficiency improvements are an effective means of tackling the many health problems related to cold conditions in homes. Our aim is to improve health, reduce health inequalities and ensure that vulnerable households need no longer risk ill health due to a cold home.