§ Mr. Michael Brownasked the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland if he intends to enter into negotiations with the Government of the Republic of Ireland with a view to establishing a common energy policy for the whole of Ireland.
§ Mr. Adam Butler:I am anxious that any opportunities for practical co-operation on energy matters between Northern Ireland and the Republic should be fully pursued. Discussions have taken place on matters of mutual interest relating to both electricity and gas.
It is hoped to announce shortly the conclusions of the Government's evaluation of a possible supply to Northern Ireland of natural gas from the Kinsale field.
§ Mr. Michael Brownasked the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland if he will make a statement on Her Majesty's Government's policy on energy in the Province.
§ Mr. Adam ButlerWithin the context of energy policy for the United Kingdom as a whole the Government will continue to seek opportunities to improve energy supply arrangements in Northern Ireland. Northern Ireland electricity tariffs have been brought more closely into line with tariffs in England and Wales. The Northern Ireland Electricity Service is undertaking, at Government's request, a series of studies of the longer term options for reducing its dependence on oil for generation. We shall continue to seek opportunities in the energy field for practical co-operation with the Republic of Ireland. I refer the hon. Member to my reply to his question on that subject today.