HC Deb 03 November 1997 vol 300 cc42-3W
Mr. Page

To ask the President of the Board of Trade (1) when she intends to introduce support for clean coal technology via the non-fossil fuel obligation process; [13106]

(2) what representations Her Majesty's Government have made to the Commission over the legality of providing clean coal technology support through the non-fossil fuel obligation process. [13105]

Mr. Battle

My Department is nearing completion of a major review of clean coal technology which has involved extensive discussions with industry, universities and a number of overseas organisations such as the International Energy Agency. The review covers future research, development and demonstration requirements and has examined a range of funding options for such requirements, including the NFFO process. An announcement on the outcome of the review, our proposed future policy, and proposed consultation with the Commission, will be made once we have had time to consider the review's findings.