HC Deb 08 February 2001 vol 362 cc629-30W
Mrs. Gilroy

To ask the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry what assessment his Department has made of the report 'The Future of Research and Development in the Gas Industry' by Professor Gordon Mackennon and Steve Thomas; and if he will make a statement. [149303]

Mr. Hain

My officials are studying the report and are meeting the Institution of Gas Engineers next week (12 February) to discuss its content.

Mrs. Gilroy

To ask the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry what evaluation his Department has made of the appropriateness to the UK of the US levy model for funding future research and development in the gas industry. [149304]

Mr. Hain

None, but I thank my hon. Friend for bringing it to my attention. The gas industry is firmly in the private sector and investment in R&D is a matter for industry participants. However, safety is a key concern of Government. The Health and Safety Executive, who are responsible for the regulatory regime for the safe conveyance and use of gas are, with DETR, considering the introduction of levy raising powers to ensure that appropriate funding is secured for safety related research. This follows the completion of HSE's Fundamental Review of Gas Safety.

Mrs. Gilroy

To ask the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry what timetable has been agreed for progressing the review of research and development in the energy industry announced in the latest UK Energy report. [149302]

Mr. Hain

As indicated in the Energy Report, the DTI has recently undertaken a review of both business and public energy-related R&D funding. The outcome of this review will be a revised strategy for the funding of future energy-related R&D activities. It is expected that a draft will be circulated for consultation during February, leading to an updated strategy being included in the overall DTI Science and Innovation Strategy, to be published spring 2001.