To ask the Secretary of State for Energy if he will extend the period for contracts under the non-fossil fuel obligation for renewable energies to 15 years.

The first order setting the level of the non-fossil fuel obligation in respect of renewables-sourced electricity generating capacity will cover the period from 1990 until 1998, and this is the period for which the fossil fuel levy will initially run. However, the arrangements that they make in order to meet their respective obligations are a matter for the public electricity suppliers.