§ Mr. BeggsTo ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland whether he will recommend the retention of the existing gas mains network to Belfast city council.
§ Mr. NeedhamNo.
§ Mr. BeggsTo ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland what information he has on whether the existing gas trunk mains network in Belfast is capable of being adapted for natural gas distribution when a supply of natural gas becomes available in Northern Ireland.
§ Mr. NeedhamShould a supply of natural gas become available the gas mains system could not be used for the distribution of gas without substantial expenditure on repairs, upgrading and renewal.