§ Mr. Simon HughesTo ask the Secretary of State for Energy what is his policy in respect of siting electricity pylons in areas of high population density.
§ Mr. Heathcoat-AmorySiting of electricity pylons is, in the first instance, a matter for the licence holder concerned. However, the majority of overhead line developments require the consent of my right hon. Friend the Secretary of State for Energy, and he takes all relevant factors, including the extent of any residential development, fully into account before reaching his decision.