§ Mr. Rostasked the Secretary of State for Energy how his Department values the creation of extra warmth in the homes of low-income households for the purpose of cost-benefit analysis of different heating systems and insulation standards.
§ Mr. David HuntThe objective of the Government's energy efficiency campaign is to tackle barriers impeding the take-up of cost-effective energy efficiency measures. It is entirely up to the householder whether to take the benefit of those measures in the form of extra warmth rather than lower bills. My Department has, however, provided practical support for low-income households through its assistance to the voluntary sector insulation projects which have insulated over 130,000 households since my right hon. Friend launched the energy efficiency initiative in 1983.
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§ Mr. Rostasked the Secretary of State for Energy if he will define his Department's responsibility with regard to the efficient use of energy in the existing heating systems in low-income households.
§ Mr. David HuntMy Department's energy efficiency campaign informs all consumers of the benefits of efficient heating systems and controls, which include lower heating bills and greater warmth. It has also supported the voluntary sector insulation projects which provide practical assistance to low-income households and which have expanded sixfold since my right hon. Friend launched the energy efficiency campaign.