asked the Secretary of State for Energy if he will make a statement on the use of microprocessors for energy saving; and what plans he has to extend this usage.

Microprocessors have potential applications in the optimum control of energy use, in building and vehicles for example. They are beginning to be installed commercially, in control of building environments and industrial processes with consequent energy savings. Work is already being carried out under the Department of Industry's microprocessor application project and the Department of Energy's energy conservation demonstration scheme with a view to extending their usage in more effective controls, by demonstrating and publicising their application and potential benefits.