§ Sir Thomas ArnoldTo ask the Secretary of State for Energy what steps he is taking to accelerate energy conservation programmes for domestic housing.
§ Mr. BaldryMy Energy Efficiency Office is taking a number of initiatives further to promote energy efficiency in housing. These include the introduction from 1 January 1991 of the home energy efficiency scheme, which provides a new system of grants for insulation and advice on energy for low-income households; a winter advertising campaign promoting a new set of informational material targeted on home movers and those improving their homes; and an information campaign which aims to draw landlords' attention to the opportunities and benefits of improving the energy efficiency of their residential property. In addition, the EEO will be working with commercial labelling systems, such as MVM Starpoint and the national home energy rating scheme, in seeking to promote the benefits of home energy labels.
The EEO is also supporting work to improve the energy efficiency of housing under its best practice programme. Independently monitored case studies and guidance literature are available to building professionals and those responsible for the management of our housing stock. This information is backed up by a comprehensive programme of seminars and workshops, some involving other organisations active in the housing sector. In addition, funds are available to contribute towards relevant research work.