Oral Answers to Questions Debate

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Oral Answers to Questions

Caroline Lucas Excerpts
Thursday 26th January 2012

(12 years, 10 months ago)

Commons Chamber
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Lord Barker of Battle Portrait Gregory Barker
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That is just the kind of technology that will be brought into the reach of millions of homes by the green deal, and it is just the kind of innovation that we want to spur. We would also look at how we might drive that by making amendments to consequential improvements. I am very interested in my hon. Friend’s ideas.

Caroline Lucas Portrait Caroline Lucas (Brighton, Pavilion) (Green)
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It is understood that there has been a significant underspend, of up to £30 million, in the Warm Front scheme, because DECC has made the eligibility criteria too strict and has not promoted the scheme. That means that up to 20% of the scheme’s funding could go unclaimed. Is it correct that there will be an underspend at the end of the financial year, and if so, what is the reason for it?

Lord Barker of Battle Portrait Gregory Barker
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The hon. Lady is right; we are slightly behind. The unseasonably warm weather that we have had this winter, compared with the cold weather last year, has meant that the number of applications has been lower. However, I am in touch with the leaders of our big metropolitan authorities, and I have spoken to the big six energy companies, Citizens Advice and others this week in order to drive forward the roll-out of Warm Front to ensure that we do not have the underspend that she has highlighted.