HC Deb 03 November 2003 vol 412 cc396-7W
Mr. Simon Thomas

To ask the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry if she will recognise Solartwin as a new technology in relation to the awarding of Clear Skies grants. [135893]

Mr. Timms

Solartwin was recognised as an innovative technology when it was developed with a DTI SMART award funding. Solartwin has been on the list of Clear Skies approved products for some months now.

Mr. Simon Thomas

To ask the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry for what reasons the Clear Skies Grant Scheme requires the use of digital thermometers. [135894]

Mr. Timms

The Clear Skies criterion does not stipulate the use of a digital thermometer where a differential temperature controller is used that can be set to limit the temperature of the water in the cylinder. Systems that do not employ this type of controller are required to use a digital thermometer as these give the clearest indication the system is working efficiently and also due to the high temperatures that can be reached give the most accurate temperature readings, therefore acting as a safety device to ensure individuals do not touch the system in error and get burnt in the process.