Oral Answers to Questions Debate

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Department: HM Treasury

Oral Answers to Questions

Oliver Heald Excerpts
Tuesday 19th April 2016

(8 years, 3 months ago)

Commons Chamber
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Damian Hinds Portrait Damian Hinds
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The reduced rate of VAT remains in place on all 11 of the categories of energy saving materials. Following the decision by the European Court, we have consulted interested parties on the issue and, given the complexities involved, we are still considering the responses.

Oliver Heald Portrait Sir Oliver Heald (North East Hertfordshire) (Con)
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Does my hon. Friend agree that about 90% or more of the solar-powered energy available in Britain has been put in place under this Government? Does he also agree that, in order for intermittent renewable power to provide a steady baseload, the investment with which the Government are supporting battery technology is absolutely key?

Damian Hinds Portrait Damian Hinds
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My hon. and learned Friend is, of course, right on multiple counts. Solar has been a great British success story: more than 99% of the installed solar PV capacity has happened since May 2010. He is also correct to say that the development of battery technology here and elsewhere is incredibly important for the future.