§ Norman BakerTo ask the Deputy Prime Minister what studies he has commissioned of the policies being adopted by other EU member states concerning obligations on owners of larger privately-owned buildings to implement Article 7.3 of the Energy Performance of Buildings Directive, with specific reference to the labelling of buildings open to the public. [176927]
§ Phil HopeI refer the hon. Member to the answer given on 13 January,Official Report, column. 723W. In the period since then officials of the Office of the Deputy Prime Minister have enquired about other Member States' intentions on the labelling of buildings open to the public both at European Commission meetings and in informal contacts with officials in other States. There have been few clear signals, but the Commission has clarified the meaning of the Article, and more Member States are expected to announce their positions in the coming months.