§ 69. Mr. Barry PorterTo ask the Secretary of State for Energy what representations he has received regarding the proposals for a Mersey barrage; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. Peter MorrisonThe Department of Energy and the Mersey Barrage Company are jointly funding feasibility studies into a Mersey barrage. The studies are being advanced to determine whether the Mersey Barrage Company can make an economic case for construction of a Mersey barrage. I expect to meet the chairman of the Mersey Barrage Company shortly to receive a progress report.
Harnessing the Mersey tides could produce approximately 0.5 per cent. of the country's current electricity needs, without fossil fuel emissions, though more studies need to be done on its environmental and regional impact.