asked the Secretary of State for the Environment whether he will take action to circulate to all local authorities the advisability of using the development of solar energy in all local council housing schemes and municipal buildings to save money, fuel and to lessen atmospheric pollution.

It would be premature at this time to recommend to local authorities the use of solar energy. Field trials are being carried out in local authority housing but generally solar space and water heating systems are not yet cost effective and more work is needed, in particular, on their longer-term maintenance and durability.