HC Deb 15 October 2002 vol 390 c545W
Harry Cohen

To ask the Secretary of State for Defence what assessment has been made of the impact of his Department's policy on radar coverage and low flying upon the Government's policy to expand wind energy technology; and if he will make a statement. [73789]

Dr. Moonie

Ministry of Defence officials are currently involved in a steering group with the Department of Trade and Industry, Civil Aviation Authority, National Air Traffic Services and the British Wind Energy Association. The group aims to address some of the issues that lead to the MOD and others making objections to developers' proposals. The MOD is currently assisting in a DTI-sponsored project by QinetiQ to study the effects of turbines on radar.

The MOD is acutely aware of the government's stated aim to achieve 10 per cent. of the United Kingdom's energy from green sources by 2010 and makes every effort to assist in achieving this. However, the Government is also committed to maintaining flight safety and the operational effectiveness of the Armed Forces.

Dr. Pugh

To ask the Secretary of State for Defence how many proposed windfarms have been objected to by his Department in the last two years; and if he will list them. [73342]

Dr. Moonie

Since 1 January 2000, the Ministry of Defence has objected to a total of 284 wind energy proposals, but has had no objection to over 400.

I will write separately with the list and a copy of the letter will be placed in the Library of the House.

Dr. Pugh

To ask the Secretary of State for Defence whether he objects to windfarms only if they interfere with the operation of RAF aircraft; and whether other nations are consulted prior to entering an objection to a windfarm. [73343]

Dr. Moonie

The Ministry of Defence deal with every wind energy proposal individually and all are given a full and thorough appraisal by at least seven separate Technical Advisors each with their own specialism including Radar, Low Flying, Communication Links and Met Office Radar. Other nations are not involved in the process of windfarm appraisal.