§ Mr. Greg KnightTo ask the Secretary of State for Transport what assessment he has made of the effectiveness of the PowerShift project; and if he will make a statement. [157925]
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§ Dr. HowellsThe PowerShift programme, which provides grants to encourage the purchase of low emission vehicles, has had its most successful year to date in 2003–04, with all the funding being fully committed. It estimated that the programme will support the purchase/conversion of 4,200 vehicles in 2003–04 compared with a total of 2,139 in 2002–03 (figures from the Energy Saving Trust).
§ Mr. Greg KnightTo ask the Secretary of State for Transport what the status of the PowerShift project is; how many new applications have been processed this year; how many new applications are being dealt with; and if he will make a statement. [157926]
§ Dr. HowellsThe PowerShift programme will begin accepting applications for 2004–05 shortly. The Energy Saving Trust expects to process applications for 4,200 vehicles in 2003–04. We expect applications to continue at a high level next year.