§ Mr. CohenTo ask the Secretary of State for Energy what assessment he has made of the V7 light bulb; whether Her Majesty's Government will be taking any steps to promote its use; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. Heathcoat-AmoryThe V7 light bulb is an energy-efficient compact fluorescent lamp available in the United States and manufactured to operate at United States voltage levels. My Energy Efficiency Office has examined a range of similar commercially available lamps in the United Kingdom. Compact fluorescent lamps are now becoming generally available in high street shops and supermarkets. They use 75 to 80 per cent. less electricity and last eight times as long as normal light bulbs for which they are suitable as direct replacements. The electricity they save will more than cover their extra initial cost.