§ Mr. Macfarlaneasked the Secretary of State for Energy how many energy savings loans have been approved up to 1st October 1977; and what is the budget for this scheme for 1978.
§ Dr. John A. Cunningham:Ten, although four of these were subsequently withdrawn by the applicants before completion of the arrangements for the advance of the loans. Five further applications were still under consideration at 1st October 1977. The budget for the Energy Saving Loan Scheme in the financial year 1977–78 is £500,000. As the hon. Member knows, the Government are currently engaged in a wide—ranging review of our energy saving policies, which may affect the Energy Saving Loan 164W Scheme. No budget has therefore yet been agreed for the scheme in the financial year 1978–79.