Oral Answers to Questions

Debate between Ian Swales and Amber Rudd

Thursday 5th February 2015 Commons Chamber

[Amber Rudd]

I agree that renewables are part of the energy mix and must be stimulated and grown in conjunction with existing energy supplies. The Scottish Government already have the responsibility for consenting to and licensing offshore wind. When the Smith commission proposals are implemented, the Scottish Government will also assume the Crown Estate’s existing role as landlord. That will give them the ability to offer more areas in Scottish waters for offshore renewable development should they wish to do so. I suggest he continues to take the issue up with the Scottish Government.

[Ian Swales (Redcar) (LD)]

In a recent written answer the Minister told me that

“it is a priority for Government to support the development of a UK-based supply chain for offshore wind and to increase the UK content of wind farms ”,

but that she does not require developers to report on UK content. Companies in the north-east, such as Deep Ocean in Darlington, that have already invested over £400 million in production and installation facilities want to know why her Department is not being more proactive in ensuring UK companies benefit fully from this taxpayer-subsidised activity.

[Amber Rudd]

My hon. Friend has raised a specific question. My broad answer is that we need a supply chain plan in place. If he would be kind enough to write to me specifically about that matter, I will take a particular interest in it.