§ Mr. HurstTo ask the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs what measures she is taking to encourage the establishment of new markets for non-food uses of arable crops. [80480]
§ Mr. MeacherThe Government are considering its response to the first report from the Government-Industry Forum on Non-Food Uses of Crops which identifies opportunities for non-food uses of arable crops. Defra and DTI are consulting stakeholders on 45W establishing a new centre which will bring together industry, academia and the research community to drive forward the commercial development of non-food uses of crops. Defra and DTI are also considering a joint initiative to provide grant support to promote technology transfer through demonstration projects. A cut in the duty rate for biodiesel came into effect in July this year to encourage the biofuel market.