§ Mr. WallaceTo ask the Secretary of State for the Environment (1) what steps he is taking to monitor the take-up of grants under the home energy efficiency scheme, following changes to eligibility criteria on 1 April; and if he will make a statement; [32042]
(2) how many claimants over the age of 60 years registered for a 100 per cent. grant under the home energy efficiency scheme before the change in eligibility criteria on 1 April. [32043]
§ Mr. Robert B. JonesWe receive regular reports on the operation of this successful scheme, which has helped almost 2 million vulnerable householders to keep their homes warmer with less fuel, from the company which manages it for us.
By 1 April, 372,000 applicants had registered their claims under the special arrangements we set up following the Budget statement. Between 1 April and 31 May, 112,000 grants were paid.