Oral Answers to Questions

Wayne David Excerpts

Wednesday 4th May 2011 Commons Chamber

[Michael Moore]

First, may I highlight the fact that, under the complex energy management arrangements for the grid, arrangements have to be made from time to time to ensure that we can stop or increase energy production? Through those arrangements, payments are made for stopping and increasing production; that is understood. The Government have set out an ambitious programme for energy reform through our energy market reform proposals. The consultation on that programme was recently concluded, and my right hon. Friend the Secretary of State for Energy and Climate Change intends to publish a White Paper on the subject in the near future. Through that, and through other measures such as the transmission grid charges review, we will seek to ensure that we have the capacity and capability to exploit the renewable energy potential not only of Scotland but of the whole United Kingdom. Our other initiatives relating to the green investment bank and the offer to the Scottish Government to release the fossil fuel surplus are indicative of our intention to play a full part in the renewables revolution.

[Mr Wayne David (Caerphilly) (Lab)]

What meaningful discussions has the Secretary of State had with the Scottish Government on this vital issue? [Interruption.]

[Michael Moore]

I am afraid that I did not hear the hon. Gentleman’s question. I wonder whether he could repeat it.

[Mr Speaker]

The hon. Gentleman may repeat the question.

[Mr David]

I was asking the Secretary of State what meaningful discussions he had had with the Scottish Government on this vital issue.

[Michael Moore]

There have been regular and ongoing discussions with the previous Scottish Government on these issues. I have to record great disappointment that despite our offer to release the fossil fuel surplus—something that eluded the previous Government—they were not keen to take it up. I hope that the new Government elected tomorrow, with Liberal Democrats at the core of it, will take up that very positive measure.