HC Deb 02 March 2004 vol 418 cc791-2W
Mrs. Humble

To ask the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry if she will make a statement on her policy on the development of gas storage facilities in underground caverns formed within deep rock salt deposits. [157500]

Mr. Timms

As Great Britain becomes increasingly dependent on imported gas it will be important that the market continues to provide sufficient flexibility to meet demand. Gas storage projects help do this. The Government therefore welcomes proposals for new projects. They must, of course, obtain necessary planning and other regulatory consents.