Biomass Electricity Subsidies: Deforestation
Debate between Lord Callanan and Lord Bhatia(3 years, 6 months ago)
Lords ChamberRead Full debate Read Hansard Text Read Debate Ministerial Extracts
Lord Callanan (Con)
In the biomass strategy, we will explore all the factors to which the noble Lord referred. I do not have a date for when a development consent order will be agreed but all this and the relevant factors will be explored in the strategy.
Lord Bhatia (Non-Afl) [V]
Does the Minister agree that the only source of electricity for third-world villages is biomass?
Lord Callanan (Con)
No, I do not agree, because there is also the potential for PV—solar photovoltaic—generation.
Small and Medium-sized Enterprises: Public Procurement Contracts
Debate between Lord Callanan and Lord Bhatia(4 years, 2 months ago)
Lords ChamberRead Full debate Read Hansard Text Read Debate Ministerial Extracts
Lord Callanan (Con)
I agree with the point that my noble friend is making but, of course, each individual contracting authority will have its own strategy for food procurement. The Crown Commercial Service has established a number of frameworks for the provision of food, and this agreement will deliver a UK-wide SME-inclusive food-procurement service for public sector food buyers.
Lord Bhatia (Non-Afl) [V]
In the Covid era, small businesses are most at risk and need help from the Government. Can the Minister answer whether he agrees?
Lord Callanan (Con)
Of course, all businesses will need help during the Covid crisis, and we have one of the largest programmes of help for companies and businesses in the western world.