§ Mr. Beaumont-Darkasked the Secretary of State for Energy what is the total sum presently being spent by the Government to encourage the conservation of energy; and what are the Government's plans for encouraging the more efficient use of energy by industry and commerce.
131W
§ Mr. John MooreThe energy conservation programme is expected to cost some £125 million in 1979–80. The greater part of this expenditure is on conservation in homes in both the public and private sectors, and in other public sector buildings. The Government believe that the economic pricing of energy provides the main stimulus to the more efficient use of energy by industry and commerce. This incentive is reinforced by information and advisory services such as the energy survey scheme, the energy quick advice service, and a wide range of publications, including the Department of Energy's monthly newspaperEnergy Management. In addition, a programme of projects aimed at promoting new energy-saving technology is being funded by the Government under the energy conservation demonstration projects scheme.