Hansard

Severn Barrage

Volume 464: debated on Wednesday 17 October 2007

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Charles Hendry

To ask the Secretary of State for Business, Enterprise and Regulatory Reform (1) whether the report he commissioned on a Severn Barrage will consider the potential economic impact of the Barrage on the city of Bristol; (158649)

(2) how many locations are being considered as being potentially suitable for the Severn Barrage;

(3) whether the report he has commissioned into a potential Severn Barrage will consider all major options for renewable energy generation facilities in the River Severn including the benefits and disadvantages of the status quo; and when the report will be concluded.

Malcolm Wicks

The feasibility study, for which the detailed remit and budget are now being scoped, will consider all key aspects of a tidal barrage in the Severn Estuary, including environmental, social and economic issues. The Government are committed to taking forward the feasibility study in an open and transparent way, which will include engaging with business, environmental and community groups.

Charles Hendry

To ask the Secretary of State for Business, Enterprise and Regulatory Reform (1) what business, environmental and community groups will be consulted with regard to the report he has commissioned on the Severn Barrage; and how such groups are being made aware of the report; (158703)

(2) what budget he has allocated for the report on the Severn Barrage.

Malcolm Wicks

[holding answer 16 October 2007]: The feasibility study, for which the detailed remit and budget are now being scoped, will consider all key aspects of a tidal barrage in the Severn Estuary, including environmental, social and economic issues. The Government are committed to taking forward the feasibility study in an open and transparent way, which will include engaging with business, environmental and community groups.