§ Mr. Peter AinsworthTo ask the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs what plans she has to increase payments to contractors operating under the home energy efficiency scheme. [8297]
§ Margaret Beckett[holding answer 18 October 2001]: The home energy efficiency scheme is managed by Eastern HEES Ltd. in the East of England, and by the Eaga Partnership in the rest of England. The scheme managers are responsible for appointing contractors to work under the scheme, through open competition in accordance with UK public procurement rules and regulations.
A number of these installer contracts are coming up for re-tender. The prices paid will depend on the results of the competition and it is possible that the contracts awarded will be at a higher price.
§ Mr. Peter AinsworthTo ask the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs what the maximum payment is per housing unit available to contractors operating the home energy efficiency scheme in(a) England, (b) Scotland and (c) Wales. [8296]
§ Margaret Beckett[holding answer 18 October 2001]: The home energy efficiency scheme (HEES) offers packages of insulation and heating improvements to those households most vulnerable to cold-related ill health in England. The maximum value of grant-funded work 170W carried out on any single home under the scheme is £2,000. This level of grant is provided to those aged 60 years or more and in receipt of an income-related benefit.
As fuel poverty is a devolved matter, it is the responsibility of the respective Parliament and Assemblies to comment on the situation in Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland.
§ Mr. Peter AinsworthTo ask the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs how many properties have benefited from the home energy efficiency scheme since June 2000; and what is the target number for the current year. [8298]
§ Margaret Beckett[holding answer 18 October 2001]: During the period 1 June 2000 to 30 September 2001, 224,000 householders benefited from HEES in England. We expect 300,000 householders will benefit in the current financial year.