HC Deb 22 June 1988 vol 135 cc600-1W
Mr. Barry Jones

To ask the Secretary of State for Energy what applications or approaches he has had from companies based in the United Kingdom or overseas for permission to build small, purpose-built coal-fired power stations; and if he will make a statement.

Mr. Michael Spicer

None. The consent of my right hon. Friend the Secretary of State is not required for the building of private coal-fired power stations.

Mr. Barry Jones

To ask the Secretary of State for Energy if he will make it his policy to stipulate that any new small purpose-built coal-fired power stations must have advanced fluidised bed combustion techniques; if he will seek to ensure that any prefabricated parts in such stations are built in the United Kingdom; and if he will make a statement.

Mr. Michael Spicer

It is a matter for the generating organisations concerned whether they wish to utilise advance fluidised bed combustion techniques. All new coal-fired power stations must meet the requirements of HMIP for emission control.