Mr. Jacksonasked the Secretary of State for Energy if the question of emissions from large combustion plants was discussed at the meeting of the Energy Minister's Council on 13 November; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. Buchanan-SmithI represented the United Kingdom at the Energy Ministers' Council on 13 November.
The council discussed energy aspects of draft directives on emissions from large combustion plant. I emphasised the need to ensure that measures adopted take full account of advances in scientific and technical knowledge and are cost-effective.
The Council adopted a resolution on energy savings, defining guidelines to good practice in a number of areas. Following discussion about the need for Community support for investment in solid fuels, the presidency concluded that all member states were willing to achieve the aim of a balanced Community strategy in this area. The Council reaffirmed its commitment to principles designed to promote realistic pricing and avoidance of discriminatory practices. Approval was given to the latest round of Community support for projects to promote development of new technology in oil and gas exploration and development.