HC Deb 23 January 2003 vol 398 c510W
Bob Spink

To ask the Secretary of State for Transport what discussions he has had with interested organisations on how to encourage more LPG fuelled vehicles. [92061]

Mr. Jamieson

My Department has regular discussions with organisations representing the LPG industry. The DfT have met with: vehicles manufacturers; fuel suppliers; the Energy Saving Trust, who manage the PowerShift programme, and the LP Gas Association.

These discussions centre on how to bring high quality LPG vehicles to market, looking at what measures can help to remove market barriers and ensuring that there is a nation-wide LPG refuelling infrastructure.

Bob Spink

To ask the Secretary of State for Transport what action he is taking to increase the number of LPG outlets in and around London. [92062]

Mr. Jamieson

There are now over 1,100 LPG refuelling outlets, giving good coverage across the UK, including the London area. The Government has supported the general development of the LPG market through fiscal measures including favourable duty rates, grants towards the premium cost of LPG vehicles and discounts for alternatively fuelled vehicles under the new Vehicle Excise Duty and company car tax regimes.

In addition Planning Policy Guidance note 13, indicates that local authorities "should look favourably at proposals" to provide LPG and other alternative fuel infrastructure, "in order to deliver wider environmental objectives".