§ Mrs. Margaret EwingTo ask the Secretary of State for Energy what research has been conducted by his Department into the potential for conversion of oilseed rape into fuel; what contacts he has had with EC and non-EC countries which have undertaken research into this matter; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. MoynihanThe Department of Energy has considered the potential for conversion of biomass, including oilseed rape, into liquid fuels. The costs appear to be uncompetitive with the cost of competing fossil fuels.
281WThe Department is aware of developments overseas through participation in the International Energy Agency bio-energy agreement and through its association with the European Commission's biomass energy programme.
The Department plans to evaluate further the potential for conversion of biomass into liquid fuels, taking account of the diversity, socio-economic and environmental benefits.