§ Mr. Rostasked the Chancellor of the Exchequer how many applications he has received from local authorities, health authorities, and others in the public sector, for authorisation to engage private sector energy management companies for contracts on a shared-energy savings basis, where no public sector investment is involved; how many such applications have been approved; and what replies have been sent to those whose applications have not been approved.
§ Mr. MacGregorResponsibility for the possible engagement of private sector energy management companies lies in the first instance with the appropriate public sector authority, in pursuit of its policies for the efficient use of energy conservation management, so information in the form requested is not available. However, I am aware that schemes are being considered in this area. I would encourage private sector involvement provided it represents the most cost-effective approach.