§ Mr. Wrigglesworthasked the Secretary of State for the Environment what representations he has received from the public alleging the abuse of the insulation grant system through pressure selling; and if he has any plans to discuss with local authorities more effective supervision of contractors for grant-aided work.
§ Mr. John PattenThe Department has in the past received representations from the public about pressure selling in connection with the Homes Insulation Scheme. Local authorities are primarily responsible for the operation of the scheme and the department's regional offices discuss regularly with authorities the operation of the scheme in practice, including the problems and types of malpractices. If the hon. Member is concerned about a particular case perhaps he would write to me with the details.
§ Mr. Frank Fieldasked the Secretary of State for the Environment if he will make a statement on the work of the interdepartmental group examing the future of the homes insulation scheme; which Departments are represented on it; what representations it has received; if it will be issuing a consultative paper; and when he expects it to report.
§ Sir George YoungThere is no such group. My Department keeps the scheme under continuing review and consults the energy efficiency office of the Department of Energy and other Government Departments as necessary.
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§ Mr. Bruceasked the Secretary of State for the Environment whether he is considering any alterations to the home insulation grant scheme, so as to incorporate other effective energy-saving measures within its remit.
§ Sir George YoungThe scope of the homes insulation scheme is kept under review including possible extensions to other energy saving measures. However, my right hon. Friend has no plans at present to widen or extend the scheme.