HC Deb 30 October 2000 vol 355 c221W
Mr. Blizzard

To ask the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry what the current timetable is for the implementation of the new electricity trading arrangements in England and Wales. [135878]

Mrs. Liddell

Ofgem announced on Friday the revised timetable for the implementation of the new electricity trading arrangements The planned implementation date is 27 March 2001 but, due to the complexity of the work to be undertaken by a large number of participants, this date will be subject to confirmation early in the new year.

My right hon. Friend the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry's intention to lift the stricter consents policy in November remains unchanged.