HC Deb 23 June 1997 vol 296 cc369-70W
Mrs. Michie

To ask the Secretary of State for Scotland what plans he has to amend the home energy efficiency scheme to encourage applications from the Scottish islands and remote areas. [3797]

Angela Eagle

I have been asked to reply.

Major revisions to this scheme, which were made by the previous administration, come into force on 1 July. From that date the scheme will include cavity wall insulation, loft insulation, heating control system upgrades, draughtproofing, energy efficient lamps, hot water tank insulation and personal advice. Installers have been appointed throughout Great Britain and they will undertake local marketing throughout their areas to bring the scheme to the attention of eligible householders. Every local authority will shortly receive guidance, issued jointly with the Scottish Office, about the scheme and the part they can play in promoting it.

We shall be taking an early opportunity to review the scheme to check whether the changes are meeting the needs of customers.