To ask the President of the Board of Trade what criteria he uses to assess the suitability of sites for the development of electricity generating plants; and what arrangements exist to involve the public in the planning process. [37088]

When assessing applications made under section 36 of the Electricity Act 1989 we will address local issues and ensure consistency with the wider objectives of secure, diverse and sustainable supplies of energy at competitive prices and meeting of environmental targets.When an application is made the applicant has to place notice of it in the local and national press. Such notice invites anyone who wishes to make representation on the application to do so to the President within a period of not less than 28 days.