To ask the Secretary of State for Wales what discussions (a) he and (b) staff in his Department had with officials of the National Assembly concerning possible outbreaks of foot and mouth disease, prior to 19 February; and if he will make a statement. [154825]

I regularly meet the First Secretary to discuss a range of issues affecting Wales, including agricultural matters. My officials and officials within the Assembly are also in frequent contact about agricultural issues.However, prior to the 19 February, these discussions did not include the possible outbreak of foot and mouth disease.

To ask the Secretary of State for Wales what additional resources are being made available to the National Assembly for Wales to help agricultural and tourism-related businesses to survive the financial effects of the consequences of foot and mouth disease. [154840]

The Assembly is involved in the decisions being made on assistance for rural businesses affected by the consequences of foot and mouth disease. Any additional funding for the Assembly would be provided under the funding arrangements for the devolved Administrations, which were set out in the Statement of Funding Policy in July 2000.

To ask the Secretary of State for Wales on what date he received notification from the Department of the Environment, Transport and Regions of its recent decision to license GM crop sites in Wales; and if he will make a statement. [157986]

I was aware, as were Assembly Ministers and officials, that sites across the UK were being sought for the second year of the Farm Scale Evaluations programme.The decision on locations for the trials was taken by the Scientific Steering Committee for the programme, on the basis of advice from the Research Consortium and information about the availability of sites from the Supply Chain Initiative on Modified Agricultural Crops (SCIMAC).DETR officials informed relevant officials about the three GM maize sites proposed for Wales once they had themselves been notified of the exact locations by SCIMAC. DETR then announced the sites on Tuesday 3 April and wrote to county and community councils in Wales with proposed sites in their areas to provide information about the Farm Scale Evaluation programme.Any further information on the detail of the announcement would be a matter for the Department of the Environment, Transport and the Regions.

To ask the Solicitor-General if he will review the decisions taken by the Crown Prosecution Service following the fatal attack on Jay Abatan in Brighton in January 1999, following the findings of the review by Essex police into the handling of the case in Sussex. [157143]

The aim of review by the Essex police into the fatal attack on Jay Abatan was to examine the conduct of the investigation by Sussex police officers. The review was commissioned by the Sussex police. The Crown Prosecution Service in Sussex has not yet received a copy of the review but remain willing to consider any findings relating to the way the CPS dealt with the prosecution of the case.I explained in a detailed written answer on 24 May 2000,

To ask the Secretary of State for the Environment, Transport and the Regions if he will publish a breakdown of the main reasons for child road deaths in each of the last three years. [157095]

[holding answer 5 April 2001]: Statistics on the main contributory factors in child road fatalities are not available. However, the main road user types of child fatalities can be identified as follows:

To ask the Secretary of State for the Environment, Transport and the Regions what topics are under discussion in relation to the proposed Single European Sky for report to the Gothenburg European Council in June. [157336]

The European Commission is still working on its Single Sky proposals which it intends to elaborate in a second Communication on Single Sky. Until the Communication has been formally presented to the College of Commissioners it is not possible to determine what precise proposals are to be put forward. The issue is expected to be discussed at the Gothenburg Council in June in general terms.

To ask the Secretary of State for the Environment, Transport and the Regions if he will set out, with statistical information relating as directly as possible to (a) Leeds, Central parliamentary constituency and (b) the City of Leeds, the effects of his Department's policies and actions since 2 May 1997. [157442]

The principal funding that this Department has provided to City of Leeds local authority in 1997 to present is shown in the table. This includes grants and borrowing approvals for revenue and capital expenditure.It is not possible to determine how much of this money has been spent on Leeds, Central constituency. It is for the local authority to decide where within its boundary these resources are applied.Lifetime total SRB funding is £16.48 million which is expected to lever in an additional investment of £26.5 million from other public and private sector sources over a seven year period commencing 1995–96.

To ask the Secretary of State for the Environment, Transport and the Regions if plastic plant pots are considered to be packaging for the purposes of the Producer Responsibility Obligation (Packaging Waste) Regulations 1997. [157603]

A recent High Court ruling confirmed the interpretation of the Producer Responsibility Obligations (Packaging Waste) Regulations 1997 (as amended) that has been taken since the Regulations came into force in 1997. Where an empty plant pot is brought as a retail product, it is not packaging. Where a plant is bought in a pot and will be kept in the pot throughout its life, or where a pot is made of biodegradable material and will be planted in the garden with the plant, the pot is not regarded as packaging. However, where plants are bought in a plant pot or a seed or bedding tray and will be transplanted to the garden, such pots are packaging. This is because these pots are used to keep the plants in good condition throughout the sales process until replanting and contain the plants for the ease and convenience of the purchaser in handling and transporting them. As such, each pot constitutes a 'sales' unit at the time of purchase.

To ask the Secretary of State for the Environment, Transport and the Regions what the outcome was of the Transport Council held in Brussels on 4 and 5 April; what the Government's voting record was at the Council; and if he will make a statement.[157537]

I represented the United Kingdom at the Council, which was held in Luxembourg.The Council opened with a policy debate on the Commission's second package of maritime safety issues. The Presidency presented a questionnaire focusing on the three elements in the package: improved ship monitoring, an additional compensation fund mechanism in cases of oil pollution, and the creation of a European Maritime Safety Agency (EMSA). The Commission hoped for common positions at the June Council. I stressed the importance of considering these proposals in the context of the International Maritime Organisation (IMO) and of existing member state competence, an approach shared by most member states present.On Galileo, the Council adopted an approach that established milestones for future significant decisions about the launch of the development (December 2001) and the deployment (December 2003) phases. I was one of a number of Ministers to speak in support of this approach, which is intended to ensure that the project is based on sound financial management and private sector financing, as required by successive conclusions of the European Council. The decision milestones are necessary if Galileo is to deliver tangible benefits to the public and provide the taxpayer with good value for money. I also argued for more work to be carried out this year to meet UK and other member states' concerns about costs, management arrangements, the definition of the services and attracting private finance. This work will help the Council make an informed decision in December about the future of the project.The Council agreed a Resolution setting out priorities for further progress in integrating environmental issues into transport policy. The Commission said it would follow up many of these priorities in the forthcoming Common Transport Policy White Paper.There was a progress report and policy debate on the draft regulation establishing a European Aviation Safety Agency (EASA). The Presidency sought views on the key issues of which aircraft should be covered, the mechanism for appointment of the Executive Director, and inspections of member states and investigations of undertakings. I joined others in expressing the views that only member state registered aircraft should be covered, that the Executive Director should be appointed by the Agency's Administrative Board, and that EASA should have the powers of inspection and investigation. The Presidency concluded that discussion should continue in the Working Group, aiming for a common position as soon as practicable.The Council agreed Conclusions urging member states to be in a position to ratify the Montreal Convention on air carrier liability by 31 December 2002. The Council also agreed a Decision for Community ratification of the Convention, to be deposited simultaneously with those of the member states. The Presidency hoped that a decision on a revision of Regulation 2027/97 would be taken in June.The Commissioner reported on her recent visit to the United States to discuss ways to limit aircraft noise in future. She felt the exchange had been useful and further technical meetings had since been arranged.

To ask the Secretary of State for the Environment, Transport and the Regions if he will make a statement on the time scale for achieving the 30 per cent. energy efficiency savings laid down in the House Energy Conservation Act 1995. [157539]

The Home Energy Conservation Act 1995 requires designated energy conservation authorities to prepare a report setting out energy conservation measures that the authority considers practicable, cost-effective and likely to result in significant improvement in the energy efficiency of residential accommodation in its area.In England, the Secretary of State for the Environment asked energy conservation authorities to prepare a strategy for making at least substantial progress towards a 30 per cent. improvement in energy efficiency over a 10-year period commencing 1 April 1996. Strategies were not expected to exceed 15 years. Similar arrangements apply in the devolved Administrations.I have placed in the Library information on improvements reported by each local authority in England from 1 April 1996 to 21 March 2000 (the latest data available).

To ask the Secretary of State for the Environment, Transport and the Regions when resurfacing of junctions 2 to 4 of the M27 motorway will commence; and if he will make a statement. [157966]

Resurfacing of the M27 between junctions 2 and 4 is programmed to start in late autumn 2001, subject to funds being available.

To ask the Secretary of State for the Environment, Transport and the Regions how many bus services were operated from Tadcaster (a) in May 1997 and (b) on the most recent date for which figures are available; and if he will make a statement. [157961]

The total number of bus departures from Tadcaster bus station on an average weekday were 85 in May 1997 and 100 in April 2001.

To ask the Secretary of State for the Environment, Transport and the Regions how many buses were operated from Selby (a) in May, 1997 and (b) on the most recent date for which figures are available; and if he will make a statement. [157960]

The total number of bus departures from Selby bus station on an average weekday were 190 in May 1997 and 214 in April 2001.

To ask the Secretary of State for the Environment, Transport and the Regions what plans he has to amend the Air Navigation Order to give effect to a national private pilot's licence; when he hopes to amend the ANO; and if he will permit flying hours undertaken by student pilots from 1 May to count towards the issue of an NPPL. [157962]

The Civil Aviation Authority advises that detailed negotiations with industry representatives over proposals for a national private pilots licence are moving towards a satisfactory conclusion. Once agreement has been reached, there will follow the normal period of consultation and, subject to general agreement on the proposals, it is hoped to amend the ANO in order to give effect to a NPPL from the beginning of next year.As regards previously accumulated flying hours, the NPPL is envisaged as being a "stand alone" licence, with no read across or equivalence to the Joint Aviation Requirements—Private Pilot's Licence. It will, in effect, exist in isolation of other ICAO compliant licences. Therefore, training to the NPPL syllabus will not be permitted prior to its coming into effect, and no credit will be granted for flying hours acquired under other training syllabuses.

To ask the Secretary of State for the Environment, Transport and the Regions how much Government funding has been provided to Railtrack through other bodies in each year since 1997. [157752]

My answer dated 18 December 2000, Official Report, column 7W, provided details of Government funding to train operating companies (TOCs) in 1997–98, 1998–99 and 1999–2000. In addition, the Government paid freight grants of £21 million, £19 million and £17 million respectively to freight operating companies (FOCs) in those years. That funding is not hypothecated to cover particular types of expenditure, so it cannot be directly identified as the source of payments made by TOCs and FOCs to Railtrack. For example, in addition to Government funding, TOCs receive income from Passenger Transport Executives, from fares paid for passenger services and from payments made for other services.The table provides details, for 1997–98, 1998–99 and 1999–2000, of access charges paid to Railtrack by TOCs and FOCs, as stated in Railtrack's Annual Reports and Accounts 1998–99 and 1999–2000.

To ask the Secretary of State for the Environment, Transport and the Regions how many fires there have been on London Underground property in each of (a) the last 10 years (b) the past 12 months. [157473]

[holding answer 9 April 2001]: London Underground have provided the following figures for fires on their property in recent years and by month in 2000–01.

To ask the Secretary of State for the Environment, Transport and the Regions how many services on the London Underground have been delayed for more than 30 minutes due to train or passenger accidents in each of (a) the last 10 years and (b) the past 12 months. [157471]

[holding answer 9 April 2001]: This is an operational matter for London Underground Ltd. (LUL) who have provided the following information on delays to train services of 30 minutes and over as a result of train or passenger accidents, for recent years and in the last 12 months.

To ask the Secretary of State for the Environment, Transport and the Regions what the projected cost is of the revised Channel Tunnel Rail Link II; how much of this will be (a) public and (b) private finance; how many extra train paths per hour it is estimated will be provided (i) between St. Pancras-Kings Cross and Fawkham Junction and (ii) between Fawkham Junction and the Channel Tunnel; when it is expected that tunnelling for CTRL II will be completed; and when work on the remodelled St. Pancras-Kings Cross International station will be completed. [157463]

[holding answer 9 April 2001]: Following the collapse of the original 1996 agreement with London and Continental Railways and the re-structuring of the deal in 1998, the total cost of the Channel Tunnel Rail Link is expected to be £5.2 billion in outturn (ie nominal) prices. Section 1 is expected to cost £1.9 billion and Section 2 £3.3 billion.Government will provide grants of £2.3 billion for the construction of Section 2. Thus up to the completion of construction £2.3 billion of funding will be public and £1 billion private sector. Government will also receive land rental payments from leasing the land on which the CTRL is built to the Concession holder.When complete the full length of the CTRL will allow for up to six Eurostar paths per hour, eight paths reserved for the Domestic Operator, two Open Access paths and paths for high speed freight.The current Section 2 programme shows tunnelling to be completed in June 2005 and work at St. Pancras in March 2006. The Section 2 of the CTRL is expected to open and services to start running in 2007.

To ask the Secretary of State for the Environment, Transport and the Regions if he will place Stafford borough council and Newcastle-under-Lyme borough council on the list of those areas in receipt of business rate relief in respect of foot and mouth disease. [157613]

Stafford borough council and Newcastle-under-Lyme borough council are not authorities which meet the criteria or rurality used for the targeting of this scheme. However, I have agreed to keep the operation of the scheme under review.

To ask the Secretary of State for the Environment, Transport and the Regions if he will list the rural local authorities to which the emergency business rate relief scheme is applicable due to the outbreak of foot and mouth disease. [157497]

[holding answer 9 April 2001]: I refer the hon. Member to the answer I gave to the hon. Member for Mid-Worcestershire (Mr. Luff) on 26 March 2001, Official Report, columns 425–26W.

To ask the Secretary of State for the Environment, Transport and the Regions what steps he is taking to ensure there is adequate landfill capacity to dispose of animal carcases from the foot and mouth disease outbreak; and if he will make a statement. [158295]

I issued yesterday the Waste (Foot and Mouth Disease) (England) Regulations 2001 for statutory consultation with appropriate bodies and a copy was placed in the Library of the House.The main purpose of the proposed Regulations is to enable the Secretary of State to issue directions requiring the holders of waste management licences for specified landfill sites to accept and dispose of specified kinds of agricultural waste. These Regulations and the consequential directions are necessary to ensure that waste arising from the foot and mouth disease outbreak is disposed of effectively and in ways which ensure protection for the environment and human health.

To ask the Secretary of State for the Environment, Transport and the Regions how many projects in Coventry, funded by his Department, are designed to improve levels of recycling. [157860]

The provision of recycling facilities is the responsibility of local authorities and in this case Coventry city council. Major extra funding for local authorities was announced in the Spending Review 2000. By 2003–04 revenue support will have risen by £1.1 billion over 2000–01 provision, in the Environmental Protection and Cultural Services allocation, which includes waste. There will also be a £140 million ring fenced fund for waste and recycling, and £220 million for PFI waste schemes over the next three years.Coventry may also benefit from projects over wider areas, but I am not aware of any projects funded by DETR which are specific to supporting recycling in Coventry.

To ask the Secretary of State for the Environment, Transport and the Regions what progress is being made to reduce carbon dioxide emissions in accordance with the Kyoto Protocol. [157859]

Under the Kyoto Protocol, the UK has agreed to reduce its greenhouse gas emissions by 12.5 per cent. relative to the 1990 level over the period 2008–12. The Government have recently published figures which show that in 1999 the UK's greenhouse gas emissions were 14.5 per cent. below 1990 levels. This represents a 6.5 per cent. reduction between 1998 and 1999.

To ask the Secretary of State for the Environment, Transport and the Regions how many organisations indicated their views on the exclusion of elements of housing costs from the calculation of household income used to define fuel poverty (a) by making submissions to the consultation on the new HEES scheme and (b) by appending their names to other submissions; and how many organisations supported (i) the exclusion of housing costs, (ii) the inclusion of housing costs, (iii) other suggestions and (iv) making no comment. [158003]

The consultation document on the New Home Energy Efficiency Scheme invited comment on whether the calculation of household income should exclude any element of housing costs such as rent or mortgage payments.A total of 252 responses to the consultation document were received. Some organisations submitted both an individual response as well as appending their names to a response from an umbrella organisation in the area.The breakdown of responses is as follows:

To ask the Secretary of State for the Environment, Transport and the Regions how many businesses in rural areas have applied for rate relief under the terms of the Rural Taskforce package announced on 20 March. [158001]

It is for local authorities to operate the discretionary hardship rate relief scheme for businesses affected by foot and mouth disease in rural areas and take up will depend on what type of scheme is introduced by the authority. It is too early to estimate how many businesses will apply for these schemes.

To ask the Secretary of State for the Environment, Transport and the Regions how many of the measures announced by the Minister for the Environment in his statement on foot and mouth of 20 March 2001, Official Report, columns 191–93, have been implemented in full; and if he will make a statement. [158004]

Of the measures announced on 20th March, we have taken the statutory measures necessary to introduce additional financial support for local authority discretionary hardship rate relief schemes to help businesses affected by foot and mouth disease in rural areas and issued guidance to authorities. Implementation is for authorities and many have announced their intention to introduce a scheme. The deferral of tax, VAT and NIC payments is being considered on a case by case basis in response to applications by business. The Small Business Service is providing advice and business support and extension of the Small Firms Loan Guarantee Scheme was announced on 6th April. The details of operation of the matched funding scheme for charities were announced by the Countryside Agency on 28th March.

To ask the Secretary of State for the Environment, Transport and the Regions what representations he has received from the Local Government Association about (a) the cost of district councils' contribution to the rate relief package announced on 20 March and (b) the list of councils whose business ratepayers are eligible for relief. [157996]

I and Ministerial colleagues have met with representatives of the Local Government Association to discuss operation of the discretionary hardship rate relief scheme for businesses affected by foot and mouth disease in rural areas. Members of the Association have put forward concerns on the application of the scheme to larger businesses, the 5 per cent. contribution made by local authorities, and additions to the list of 151 authorities to whom the scheme applies.

To ask the Secretary of State for the Environment, Transport and the Regions what representations he has received from district councils about the cost of their contribution to the rate relief package announced on 20 March. [157995]

I have received representations from district councils with mixed urban and rural areas who have sought to be included with the 151 rural authorities who will benefit from the higher rate of contribution to the costs of hardship rate relief which I have made available.In addition I understand that some small rural district authorities are concerned that it will be difficult for them to find the 5 per cent. of the cost which the scheme requires.

To ask the Secretary of State for the Environment, Transport and the Regions how many times the Rural Taskforce has met; and what budget has been allocated to it. [157994]

The Rural Taskforce has now met four times under my chairmanship, and the fifth meeting will be on Wednesday 11 April. The costs involved in providing support for the Taskforce are being met from the Department of the Environment, Transport and the Regions' running costs budget.

To ask the Secretary of State for the Environment, Transport and the Regions what measures he is taking to ensure rail passengers affected by the recent disruptions are compensated; and if he will make a statement. [158070]

Late last year, train operators announced two compensation packages totalling £70 million for passengers with monthly or longer season tickets whose journeys were severely disrupted by speed restrictions, Railtrack's track renewal programme and widespread flooding. Weekly and daily ticket holders can claim compensation for delays under their train operator's Passenger Charter. Bidders for replacement franchises will be expected to improve on current Passenger Charter obligations

To ask the Secretary of State for the Environment, Transport and the Regions if he will publish the grounds on which the Strategic Rail Authority agreed to Virgin Trains' proposals for a 10 per cent. increase in rail fares. [157783]

The increases announced by Virgin relate in the main to unregulated fares. Under the terms of its franchise, any increase in unregulated fares is a commercial matter for Virgin. However, in the light of recent disruption on the rail network, and the wish to attract more passengers to rail, the Government find Virgin's announcement regrettable. The Strategic Rail Authority will be meeting representatives from Virgin shortly to discuss the matter.

To ask the Secretary of State for the Environment, Transport and the Regions if he will set out the effects, with statistical information on (a) Hampstead and Highgate and (b) the London borough of Camden of his Department's policies since 2 May 1997. [158020]

The principal funding that this Department has provided to the London borough of Camden since 2 May 1997 is shown in the table. This includes grants and borrowing approvals for revenue and capital expenditure.It is not possible to determine how much of this money has been spent on Hampstead and Highgate. It is for the local authority to decide where within its boundary these resources are applied.

To ask the Secretary of State for the Environment, Transport and the Regions if he will publish the date for the commencement of the single rail franchise for Wales, and if he will make a statement. [158096]

The Strategic Rail Authority announced on 15 February that Arriva plc/Connex Transport UK Ltd., FirstGroup plc, National Express Group plc and Serco Rail had been shortlisted to compete for the Wales and Borders franchise. It is not possible to publish a commencement date as there is no set timetable for awarding this franchise.

To ask the Secretary of State for the Environment, Transport and the Regions if he will make a statement on the progress of the Advisory Group on Motorcycling. [158177]

The Advisory Group on Motorcycling has been meeting since May 1999 to discuss issues of concern to those who ride motorcycles. The Government are today publishing an Interim Report of the Advisory Group on Motorcycling. Copies have been placed in the Library of the House.

To ask the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry if he will publish the number of claims and the amount of compensation paid to ex-miners under the (a) miners' compensation scheme and (b) vibration white finger scheme in the Caerphilly parliamentary constituency. [157545]

The Department's claim handling agents, IRISC, have registered 3,268 claims in respect of chronic bronchitis and emphysema from claimants in the Caerphilly constituency, as defined by post codes CF46, CF81, CF82, CF83 and NP1. As at 4 April the Department had settled 93 claims in full, and made a further 896 interim settlements.In addition, IRISC have registered 2,282 claims in respect of Vibration White Finger from claimants in the Caerphilly constituency. As at 4 April the Department had settled 466 claims in full, and made a further 360 interim settlements.

To ask the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry what the length of the contractual agreement is between his Department and Healthcall Ltd. in respect of their work in the medical assessment of ex-miners; when the contract will terminate; and if the contract will be re-tendered if the compensation process is unfinished by the end of the current contract. [157582]

[holding answer 9 April 2001]: The contract signed by the Department with Healthcall Services Ltd. runs for 36 months from 1 November 1999, and is subject to an additional 12 month extension. No decision has been taken at present as to whether the contract will be re-tendered if the assessment process is unfinished. I have met its managers regularly over the past two months to discuss progress in compensation payments and they are co-operating fully in speeding up the system of medical assessments.

To ask the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry (1) what support his Department has given to British Aerospace with regard to that company's contract to supply Hawk jets to India; [156885](2) which Ministers from his Department have been involved in discussions with

[holding answer 4 April 2001]: I refer the hon. Member to the answer given by my hon. Friend the Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Defence on 9 April 2001, Official Report, column 367W.

To ask the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry how much was spent on industrial investment and environmental improvements by One North East in the Blyth Valley constituency in each year since 1997. [157296]

One North East commenced its operations on 1 April 1999. The total expenditure by One North East since then in the Blyth Valley constituency amounts to £8.94 million as shown in the table.

To ask the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry if he will make a statement about the conclusions of the Quinquennial Review of the National Weights and Measures Laboratory. [158294]

The first stage of the five-yearly Review of the National Weights and Measures Laboratory (NWML) has now been completed.NWML will continue as an Executive Agency of the DTI.NWML is a regulatory body. The current functions of NWML form a coherent group that benefits from being managed as a whole Ministers have therefore decided not to proceed with the alternative option considered by the Review, that of transferring the bulk of NWML's work to NPL Management Ltd. (the company which runs the National Physical Laboratory under contract to the DTI) with a small policy unit kept in the DTI. This organisational separation of policy from operations would risk reducing the quality of the work, and has been criticised by interested parties. The present integrated structure is seen as a great strength of NWML.As announced on 28 July 2000,

To ask the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry if he has approved the Post Office's five-year Strategic Plan 2001 to 2006; and if he will make a statement. [158292]

The Government have approved the Post Office's five-year Strategic Plan for 2001–06, endorsing the Board's view that this should be the basis on which management should drive the business forward. This is a five-year rolling Plan which is updated annually. The Plan represents a key element in the new arms-length relationship that the Government have established with the Post Office in fulfilment of the reforms described in the White Paper published in July 1999. The Post Office is continuing to build on last year's Plan. Nevertheless, it recognises that there remains much to do in an increasingly competitive marketplace.

To ask the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry what plans he has to introduce set aside systems for steel plants until the depression in the steel trade ends. [157786]

My Department has no plans to introduce set aside systems for steel plants.

To ask the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry what assessment he has made of the effectiveness of schemes for retail take-back of electrical waste in (a) Austria, (b) Germany, (c) the Netherlands and (d) Switzerland. [157610]

Detailed assessments for the four named countries have not been undertaken. The formal take-back schemes are relatively new and vary greatly in scope and approach to funding. Direct comparison is difficult. Switzerland (1998) and the Netherlands (1999, 2000) have both legislated for retailer take back but the Government are unaware of any formal assessments by the Swiss or Dutch Governments. Germany has developed a draft ordinance (1999) which is currently the subject of a review. Austria introduced a draft ordinance in 1994 covering only lamps and white goods. This is currently being reviewed by the Austrian authorities.

To ask the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry if he will include energy from waste by pyrolysis in the renewables obligation. [157227]

No firm commitment can yet be made regarding the status of pyrolysis or other energy from waste technologies under the Renewables Obligation. My Department is still considering the responses to the consultation document on the Obligation. A summary of the responses was published on 20 March, and we will publish our revised proposals as soon as possible.

To ask the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry (1) if he will assess the benefits of energy from waste generated by pyrolysis; [157225](2) if his Department will promote energy from waste by small-scale pyrolysis. [157228]

Pyrolysis may prove to be a cleaner means of energy recovery from waste than incineration and cost-effective at a smaller scale. This could contribute to achieving the proximity principle proposed in the Government's Waste Strategy and complement local recycling schemes.

To ask the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry if he will assess the potential effect of pyrolysis on the level of the waste stream to landfill. [157226]

The extent to which pyrolysis reduces the volume of waste to landfill depends very much on the pyrolysis technology employed. Some of these technologies produce a glass-like residue that can be used for road aggregate avoiding almost any landfill stream, some a lighter ash and some a charcoal-type material that can be quite bulky. However, I do wish to find ways of encouraging new technology that converts waste into renewable energy, after maximum recycling.

To ask the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry how many persons have been appointed chairman or part-time chairman of employment tribunals in Scotland without being a Scottish advocate or solicitor of not less than seven years' standing. [157611]

[holding answer 9 April 2001]: Part-time Chairmen of Employment Tribunals in Scotland are appointed by the Lord President of the Court of Session in accordance with Section 5a of the Employment Tribunals (Constitution and Rules of Procedure) (Scotland) Regulations 1993.

To ask the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry what the outcome of the Telecommunications Council held in Brussels on 4 and 5 April was; what the Government's voting record at the Council was; and if he will make a statement. [157538]

I represented the UK on the telecommunications aspects of the Transport and Telecommunications Council held in Luxembourg on 4–5 April.The Council reached political agreement on common positions in respect of three proposals for Directives arising from the European Commission's 1999 communications review: on a common regulatory framework for electronic communications networks and services; on access to, and interconnection of, electronic communications networks and associated facilities; and on the authorisation of electronic communications networks and services. I strongly welcomed this agreement as a significant step toward fostering the competitive communications markets that are a vital element in the European Union's target to be the most successful knowledge economy in the world by 2010.The Presidency gave a progress report on a fourth proposal for a Directive, on universal service and users' rights relating to electronic communications networks and services.The Presidency indicated that it expects the Council to reach common positions on all four proposals at the next Transport and Telecommunications Council, to be held in Brussels on 27–28 June.The Presidency also indicated that it expects the Council to reach common positions on proposals for a Regulation on the implementation of the Internet top level domain "EU" and on amending Directive 97/67/EC with regard to further opening to competition of Community postal services at the next Transport and Telecommunications Council.The Council also held discussions on a Commission Communication on the introduction of third generation mobile communications in the EU; on the eEurope 2002 Action Plan, including network security and a Commission Communication on creating a safer information society by improving the security of information infrastructures and combating computer-related crime; and on international aspects of the organisation and management of the Internet.The Commission provided information on implementation by member states of the Regulation on unbundled access to the local loop.

To ask the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry what targets he has set for the recruitment of engineers in the next 10 years; and what account he has taken of the current level of UCAS acceptances for engineering degrees. [156167]

The Government do not set targets for the recruitment of engineers. However, we do listen carefully to employers when developing strategies to meet future skills needs in engineering. We also take account of statistical data and research reports from a wide variety of sources, including UCAS. The National Training Organisations (NTOs) also have a key role in providing detailed and accurate information on future skills issues across a range of sectors and we hope to see this role developed and enhanced as a result of the current consultation exercise aimed at strengthening the NTO Network.It has, however, become increasingly apparent that there is a need for improved information on the developing skills needs in engineering over the longer term, particularly in relation to the new technologies. The need for such information was recognised as a key issue for the Hawley Review of the Engineering Council set up by my noble Friend the Minister for Science and Innovation in October 1999. It is currently being considered in further detail by the Education and Training working group set up by the Engineering Council as part of the transitional arrangements for the establishment of the Engineering and Technology Board (ETB) in October 2001. Lord Trefgarne. Chairman of the Engineering and Marine Training Authority (EMTA), the National Training Organisation for engineering manufacture, chairs this group.The Government recognise the fundamental importance of maintaining an adequate flow of bright and well-motivated people into engineering and we continue to support a wide range of initiatives aimed at promoting engineering as a rewarding and challenging career. These include the Campaign to Promote Engineering (CPE) and the Science Engineering Technology Mathematics Network (SETNET).The latest initiative in this area is the Science Technology Engineering Mathematics (STEM) Delivery Programme, to which DTI has committed £6 million over the next three years. This aims to provide young people and their science teachers with access to the very best business-sponsored support materials and schemes by providing a single point of support through each Learning and Skills Council area in England (separate arrangements will apply in Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland). The key objective for the programme will be to ensure that every young person in the UK under 16 should have the opportunity to experience an appropriate STEM activity at least once in each Key Stage.The STEM Delivery Programme will also include the establishment of a nation-wide Science and Engineering Ambassadors Scheme (SEAS) to encourage younger people engaged in careers in science and engineering to go back into schools to encourage others to follow them. This will be launched jointly by DTI and DfEE at the start of Science Year in September 2001.

To ask the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry if he will set out, with statistical information relating as directly as possible to the Ribble Valley constituency, the effects on Ribble Valley of his Department's policies and actions since 2 May 1997. [157848]

This Department does not maintain statistical information at constituency level.The people of Ribble Valley, like many others throughout Lancashire, have benefited from my Department's Employment Rights policies which include National Minimum Wage, Working Time Directive, Part Time Working Regulations and improved maternity leave.In addition, five wards in Ribble Valley are eligible for Enterprise Grant Scheme funding.In the North West region, my Department's policies have contributed to growth in employment by 107,000 and a fall in unemployment by 63,000; reductions in youth unemployment by 75 per cent. and long-term unemployment by 54 per cent.

To ask the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry if he will make a statement on the progress of the bids under the Urban 2 Programme scheme. [157438]

The Government are still in negotiations with the European Commission about the number of projects which the Commission will accept from the United Kingdom under the new round of the Urban Community Initiative.

To ask the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry what advisory structure he proposes for intellectual property following the recent review of the Standing Advisory Committee on Industrial Property. [158293]

I propose to reform the Standing Advisory Committee on Industrial Property in line with the recommendations of the recent review of SACIP. The review identifies a need for the Patent Office and DTI Ministers to have access to independent, horizon-scanning advice on intellectual property in the round, which would allow us to view policy in its broad economic and social context. The committee's name will be changed to the IP Advisory Committee. It will have new terms of reference and its remit will include copyright as well as patents, trade marks and designs. Members will be appointed in accordance with the guidance from the Office of the Commissioner for Public Appointments.

To ask the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry if he will make a statement on UK-US collaboration on Mox fuel development. [156372]

I am not aware of any such collaboration.

To ask the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry if the Director General of Fair Trading will include motor vehicle body repair in the inquiry into standards in the vehicle servicing and repair sector. [157125]

The Director General of Fair Trading completed his inquiry into the car servicing and repair industry and reported his conclusions in August last year. His inquiry concentrated on the provision of routine maintenance and the replacement, repair and adjustment of defective parts and components, as the majority of consumer complaints he received were about these subjects.I understand that the Director General has no plans to conduct any further inquiries into the car repair sector at present.

To ask the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry, pursuant to his answer of 2 April 2001, Official Report, column 4W, on paypoint terminals, what assessment he has made of the implications for competitiveness in convenient bill payment facilities of the Post Office's policy. [157631]

This issue was reviewed by the Office of Fair Trading in 1998 whose conclusion was that the Post Office policy in this regard neither created a significant issue for consumers nor constituted a barrier to competitors, such as PayPoint, except to a very marginal degree.

To ask the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry what regulations on interruptions to domestic electricity supplies will apply from April 2002; and what compensation will be available to residents whose supply is significantly interrupted after that date. [157583]

Regulations 17 and 23(1) of the Electricity Supply Regulations 1988, as amended, cover interruptions to domestic electricity supplies. Regulation 17 relates to the sufficiency of an electricity supplier's works and regulation 23(1) relates to the precautions, which a supplier has to take against supply failure. These requirements are to be carried forward in the draft Electricity Safety, Quality and Continuity Regulations 2001. These draft regulations, which are currently at the public consultation stage, are expected to be in force by the end of this year.Compensation payable to a resident if supply is not restored in a given time is covered by the Office of Gas and Electricity Market's (OFGEM's) Guaranteed Standards of performance. This is currently £50 plus £25 for each additional 12 hours if electricity supply is not restored within 18 hours of a fault. It is recognised, however, that changes to the Guaranteed Standards will be required from April 2002 but this is a matter that is currently under discussion. Also under consideration is a new Guaranteed Standard which covers the level of compensation payable to residents who have suffered more than a specified number of interruptions in a given period of time. That standard will apply from April 2002.

To ask the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry when he was advised that the inquiry into Hollis Industries had obtained evidence of an invoice of £200,000 payable to the hon. Member for Coventry, North-West (Mr. Robinson). [157165]

[holding answer 6 April 2001]: I refer the right hon. Member to the reply I gave to the hon. Member for Lewes (Mr. Baker), on 2 April 2001, Official Report, columns 5–6W. This makes it clear that, acting on the advice of my Permanent Secretary, I ruled myself out of the involvement in the inquiries into the companies associated with my hon. Friend the Member for Coventry, North-West (Mr. Robinson), principally Hollis Industries plc. As a result I did not see or receive advice on any evidence obtained during these inquiries.

To ask the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry, pursuant to his answer of 2 April 2001, Official Report, column 7W, on Hollis Industries, if he will place in the Library the advice to which he refers. [157167]

[holding answer 6 April 2001]: As the right hon. Member is aware, the actual confidential minutes containing advice from officials to Ministers are not published. This has been the practice under successive administrations.

To ask the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry if he will list each grant-making scheme and initiative which has been launched by his Department since May 1997, together with funds available for distribution in 2001–02. [157162]

Information on the Department's schemes and initiatives together with planned expenditure for 2001–02 and outturns are available in the annual Expenditure Plans Reports, copies of which are available in the Library of the House.A list of main grant-making schemes and initiatives launched by the Department since May 1997 is as set out.

To ask the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry if he will set out, with statistical information relating as directly as possible to the Tiverton and Honiton constituency, the effects on Tiverton and Honiton of his Department' s policies and actions since 2 May 1997. [157806]

The Department has provided the following support for businesses in Tiverton and Honiton Constituency since May 1997.

To ask the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry where and when the strategic goals to be pursued by the European Union at the four Ministerial Conference of the World Trade Organisation scheduled for Doha in November were (a) agreed and (b) made public; and which Ministers and officials were present when the goals were agreed. [157327]

The EU's aims for a New Round of multilateral trade talks were set out ahead of the three Ministerial Conference of the World Trade Organisation (WTO) at Seattle in the General Affairs Council (GAC) Conclusions of 26 October 1999. Those aims were discussed in European Standing Committee C on Monday 22 November 1999 and the Government's proposals were accepted.The GAC in Seattle on 3 December 1999, attended by myself and my right hon. Friend the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry, confirmed the EU's comprehensive approach to a New Round.Following the failure at Seattle to launch a New Round, the UK has been fully involved in reviewing the EU's position through numerous discussions at Ministerial and official level. These include a Ministerial meeting in Porto which I and other EU Trade Ministers attended, on 17–18 March 2000, and most recently another Ministerial meeting of EU Trade Ministers on 25 February 2001, which I attended.The EU is still seeking the launch of a comprehensive round of talks: we maintain that only a broad-based inclusive agenda can encompass priority issues for every WTO Member, increasing the incentive to tackle more difficult areas and so bringing greatest benefits to all.The EU's principle of a comprehensive mandate was supported by the House of Lords Select Committee on the European Union in its report on the EU Mandate after Seattle (HL Paper 76: published 13 June 2000). That report noted the need for it to be pragmatic and flexible in its execution of that mandate.

To ask the Secretary of State for Defence if he will list (a) the original in-service date, (b) the revised in-service date and (c) the latest expected in-service date for ASRAAM; and if he will make a statement. [157179]

[holding answer 9 April 2001]: The in-service date set at the main approval point for ASRAAM was December 1998. Technical problems with the missile hardware and software, combined with a decision to alter the delivery programme to align better with the candidate aircraft, resulted in the approval of a revised in-service date of April 2001Matra BAE Dynamics (MBD), the prime contractor for ASRAAM, has not yet achieved the missile performance level required by the Ministry of Defence (MOD). The company has encountered a number of technical problems, which have caused some delay to the programme and mean that the in-service date of April 2001 will not be achieved. The MOD is not prepared to take delivery of any missiles until MBD can show that an acceptable standard can be met. However, we have made clear to the company the need to resolve the problems and to agree a revised programme to its entry into service. Until that time, Tornado F3, Harrier GR9 and Sea Harrier FA2 aircraft will continue to have an effective short-range air-to-air capability using Sidewinder missiles.

To ask the Secretary of State for Defence what performance targets have been set for the Naval Manning Agency for 2001–02. [158296]

The Key Targets that have been set for the Chief Executive of the Naval Manning Agency for the financial year 2001–02 are set out. The targets build upon progress made by the Agency since it formed on 1 July 1996.

To ask the Secretary of State for Defence what key targets have been set for the Naval Recruiting and Training Agency for 2001–02. [158297]

These key targets have been set for the Naval Recruiting and Training Agency for 2001–02:

• To deliver RN personnel to the trained strength (or to other training organisations) within 4 per cent. variance from the tasked requirement.
• To deliver RM recruits to Commandant General Royal marines within 3 per cent. variance from the tasked requirement.
• To obtain 96 per cent. "Satisfactory" assessments from the employers of NRTA trainees.
• To maintain success rates of 95 per cent. in Career Training and 97 per cent. in examined pre-joining training.
• To reduce the variance between RNR Trained Strength and Total Requirement to 32 per cent.
• To retain tasked capacity while operating NRTA within its 2000‒01 resource allocation.
• To achieve net benefits of £12 million in FY 2001–02 from the partnering arrangement with Flagship Training Ltd.

To ask the Secretary of State for Defence what performance targets have been set for the Defence Communication Services Agency for 2001–02. [158298]

Key Targets have been set for the Chief Executive of the DCSA for the financial year 2001–02. The targets build on the progress already made by the Agency since it formed in April 1998 and are:

To ask the Secretary of State for Defence how many times officials from his Department have held meetings with the United States Department of Defence under the information exchange agreement on non-lethal weapons systems signed on 2 February 1998 under the US-UK Master Information Exchange Memorandum of Understanding on non-lethal weapons; when and where each meeting was held; and with which section of the United States Department of Defence each meeting was held. [157343]

Five formal meetings have been held:

• 13–14 May 1998 at Farnborough (UK)
• 18–19 November 1998 at San Antonio
• 29–30 April 1999 at Quantico, Virginia
• 21 January 2000 at Quantico, Virginia
• 1 December 2000 in London.

To ask the Secretary of State for Defence how many information exchanges have been signed under the US-UK Master Information Exchange Memorandum of Understanding on non-lethal weapons since 18 November 1994; on what date and at what location and with which section of the US Department of Defense each information exchange was signed. [157301]

One Annexe to the Master Information Exchange Memorandum of Understanding on non-lethal weapons has been signed: UK-RN-N-97–5951 on Non-lethal Weapons Systems. This was signed on 2 February 1998, with a duration of five years, at Quantico, Virginia with the US Joint Non-Lethal Weapons Directorate.

To ask the Secretary of State for Defence how many heavy lift aircraft there are in the UK; and how many more will be acquired as a part of the Strategic Defence Review. [157862]

The Strategic Defence Review concluded that we needed to improve our strategic airlift capability to allow us to move forces and equipment quickly to an overseas theatre. In my statement on 16 May 2000, Official Report, columns 149–61, I announced the intention to order 25 A400M to fulfil our long-term outsize airlift requirements from the latter part of the decade.I also announced that we would be leasing four C-17 aircraft to improve our strategic airlift capability until A400M enters service. This contract has now been signed and we expect to take delivery of the aircraft in May this year.The RAF's heavy lift capability is currently provided by the following in-service aircraft types:

To ask the Secretary of State for Defence what British troops are stationed on the Macedonian border; and what their rules of engagement are. [157863]

At the end of March, the British-led Task Force CAMBRAI deployed to the US-led sector in MNB(E), with an area of responsibility which includes a stretch of the Kosovo/Macedonian border. This Task Force currently totals some 400, of whom some 200 are British troops.The rules of engagement for British troops in MNB(E) are robust, as they are for other UK troops serving in KFOR.

To ask the Secretary of State for Defence how many jobs in Coventry are dependent on the UK defence industry. [157864]

I will write to my hon. Friend and a copy of my letter will be placed in the Library of the House.

To ask the Secretary of State for Defence what the capabilities will be of the amphibious landing vessels that will replace the existing ones. [157865]

The Alternative Landing Ships Logistic (ALSLs) are designed for the carriage and offload at sea of troops, their equipment and stores, including ammunition, directly into a potentially hostile environment. They represent an important element of the modernisation of the UK amphibious capability foreseen in the Strategic Defence Review.The current Landing Ships Logistics (LSLs) are mostly over 30 years old and of decreasing utility. The four new ALSLs will each have double the Linear Metre capacity of an LSL, thus providing greater vehicle and equipment carriage to support the embarked troops. This represents a marked increase in our amphibious lift capability. The ALSLs will be able to offload troops more quickly, by sea and air simultaneously, at a safer distance, and in significantly worse sea conditions. They can also provide tactical logistics support to land forces, and are flexible ships which can undertake a wide variety of other military tasks.

To ask the Secretary of State for Defence what plans he has to award a general service medal to veterans of the Suez emergency. [157987]

The Suez operation of 1956 is recognised by the "Near East" clasp to the General Service Medal. There are no plans to institute a medal for the earlier period of emergency from 1951 onwards. The then Under-Secretary of State for Defence my hon. Friend the Member for Warley (Mr. Spellar), reviewed the matter in 1998 and found no evidence that he believed would enable him to persuade the Committee on the Grant of Honours, Decorations and Medals to overturn their policy of non-retrospection, or to revoke any of the decisions made at the time or following various Departmental reviews since 1990. No such evidence has subsequently come to light.

To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer what powers he has to authorise limited liability partnerships under the Financial Services and Markets Act 2000. [158182]

From 6 April 2001, businesses are able to organise themselves as limited liability partnerships (LLPs), in addition to other existing business structures.The effect of EC law is to prevent insurance business being undertaken by LLPs. We will ensure FSMA is consistent with that.There is no evidence of interest in banking (ie deposit-taking) businesses seeking to be organised as LLPs. Were there any evidence of interest in using the LLP structure, we would need to examine the issues closely.LLPs carrying on financial services business, other than insurance or deposit taking, may seek authorisation under the FSMA from the Financial Services Authority after N2.

To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer (1) what the latest estimate is, measured in (a) resource accounting terms and (b) resource accounting terms at 2001 prices, of the planned increase in the annual total gross expenditure on administration by all Departments from 1996–97 to 2003–04; [157875](2) what the latest estimate is, measured in

Public Expenditure Statistical Analyses (PESA) 2000–01 (Cm 4601, 2000) published the final set of departmental administration cost plans on a cash basis. In accordance with "Better Accounting for the Taxpayer's Money" (Cm 2626, 1994), Departments were required to produce resource information from April 1998. This year's edition of PESA 2001–02 (Cm 5101, 2001) contains resource-based administration cost plans from that date, although estimates for the earlier years are included in footnote six.The latest GDP deflator is published on the Treasury website (www.hm-treasury.gov.uk).

To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer how many people in Hampstead and Highgate will benefit from the recent rise in Disabled Persons Tax Credit. [158012]

I refer my hon. Friend to my answer to my hon. Friend the Member for Lancaster and Wyre (Mr. Dawson) on 22 January 2001, Official Report, column 425W. All recipients of the Disabled Persons Tax Credit will benefit from this month's increases, and from the further increase to the basic credit in June.

To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer if he will make it his policy to extend the reduced rate of VAT on energy-saving materials to energy-saving materials sold direct for fitting by the purchaser. [157888]

Energy-saving materials sold direct to the public are not included in the list of goods and services to which, under agreements with our European partners, a reduced rate of VAT may apply. We will be seeking their inclusion as a result of the European Commission's general review of reduced rates planned for 2003.

To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer how many pay-slip booklets for the 12-month period commencing April 2001 were re-issued by the Inland Revenue; for what reason the re-issue was necessary; and what the total cost of re-issuing the booklets was. [157896]

The Inland Revenue issues approximately 1.3 million pay-slip booklets during February/March each year to all employers, for their use in making payment in the year commencing on the following 6 April. Thereafter, the IR issues booklets weekly to new employers and to those employers who have requested a re-issue due to loss, eg because of change of address or damage. Re-issues are not counted separately from new cases but the average weekly issue of 100 since the bulk issue does not suggest re-issues are occurring on a wide scale for a particular reason.

To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer if he will set out the annual (a) gross and (b) net contributions to the European Community made by the United Kingdom since 1973. [157398]

[holding answer 6 April 2001]: Details of the United Kingdom's gross contributions, abatement, public sector receipts and net contributions for the period 1973–74 to 1998–99 can be obtained from various Departmental Reports of the Chancellor of the Exchequer's Departments or, previously, Government Expenditure Plans.The net contribution figure for 1999–2000, and the Government's latest estimate for 2000–01, can be found at footnote 2 to Table C11 of the Budget 2001 (HC 279) published in March. Details of these two figures, ie gross contribution, abatement and public sector receipts, will be included in this year's Departmental Report of the Chancellor of the Exchequer's Departments.

To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer what plans he has to pay retrospectively widower's bereavement payments to all men widowed between 6 April 1994 and 5 April 2000 who paid tax in (a) the year in which they were widowed and (b) the following year. [157856]

I refer the hon. Gentleman to the answer I gave the hon. Member for Argyll and Bute (Mrs. Michie) on 23 November 2000, Official Report, column 317W.

To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer if he will set out, with statistical information relating as directly as possible to the Ribble Valley constituency, the effects on Ribble Valley of his Department's policies and actions since 2 May 1997. [157843]

Ribble Valley, along with the rest of the United Kingdom, is benefiting from the long-term action we have taken to build economic stability and secure high and stable levels of growth and employment. Since the general election, claimant unemployment in the constituency has fallen by 436, or 45 per cent., youth unemployment is down by 77 per cent., and long-term unemployment has fallen by 70 per cent.Macro-economic stability is being complemented at the micro-economic level by the Government's policies to ease the transition from welfare into work and to make work pay. To the end of January 2001, the new deal for 18-24 year olds had helped 215 young people in Ribble Valley constituency gain valuable skills and experience—114 (53 per cent.) of whom had moved into employment. The Working Families Tax Credit (WFTC), introduced in October 1999, is helping to make work pay for low and middle-income families. In August 2000, 1,400 families in the constituency were benefiting from WFTC.The Government are also committed to policies that enable pensioners to share in the country's rising prosperity. All pensioners, including 18,800 in Ribble Valley, will receive an above-inflation increase in the basic state pension from April 2001. Single pensioners will receive an extra £5 a week, and couples will receive an extra £8 a week. All pensioners aged 75 or over have also been entitled to a free TV licence since November 2000—including around 7,500 in Ribble Valley.

To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer if he will set out, with statistical information relating as directly as possible to the Tiverton and Honiton constituency, the effects on Tiverton and Honiton of his Department's policies and actions since 2 May 1997. [157811]

Tiverton and Honiton, along with the rest of the United Kingdom, are benefiting from the long-term action we have taken to build economic stability and secure high and stable levels of growth and employment. Since the general election, claimant unemployment in the constituency has fallen by 562, or 39 per cent., youth unemployment is down by 84 per cent., and long-term unemployment has fallen by 73 per cent.Macro-economic stability is being complemented at the micro-economic level by the Government's policies to ease the transition from welfare into work and to make work pay. To the end of January 2001, the New Deal for 18 to 24-year-olds had helped 423 young people in Tiverton and Honiton constituency gain valuable skills and experience—236 (56 per cent.) of whom had moved into employment. The Working Families Tax Credit (WFTC), introduced in October 1999, is helping to make work pay for low and middle income families. In August 2000, 2,100 families in the constituency were benefiting from WFTC.The Government are also committed to policies that enable pensioners to share in the country's rising prosperity. All pensioners, including 22,500 in Tiverton and Honiton, will receive an above-inflation increase in the basic state pension from April 2001. Single pensioners will receive an extra £5 a week, and couples will receive an extra £8 a week. All pensioners aged 75 or over have also been entitled to a free TV licence since November 2000—including around 9,700 in Tiverton and Honiton.

To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer if he will permit the early review of the working families tax credit assessments of those affected by foot and mouth disease. [157596]

Families whose income is affected by the foot and mouth outbreak may be able to take advantage of the working families tax credit by applying to the Inland Revenue. The Tax Credit Office helpline—which can advise on eligibility and issue application forms—can be contacted on 0845 609 5000 in Great Britain and 0845 609 7000 in Northern Ireland.

To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer what representations he has received about the operation of the Working Families Tax Credit in relation to small businesses which are suffering a substantial reduction in cash flow as a result of foot and mouth disease; and if he will make a statement. [157223]

An employer who does not have enough PAYE tax, National Insurance contributions or student loan deductions out of which to pay the Working Families Tax Credit that is due to an employee can telephone the Inland Revenue Accounts Office to ask for additional funding. We are aware of only one such request to date as a result of cash flow problems arising from foot and mouth disease. The necessary funding was provided in this case.

To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer pursuant to his answer of 2 April 2001, Official Report, column 46W, on motorcycling (VAT), if he will reduce VAT on vital replacement parts for motorcycle helmets and safety clothing worn by motorcyclists, to the lowest applicable rate. [157632]

Replacement parts for motorcycle helmets and safety clothing worn by motorcyclists are subject to VAT at the standard rate. EU law does not permit a reduced rate for such items.

To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer how many deaths from epilepsy were recorded in the periods between (a) 1 November 1999 and 28 February 2001 and (b) 1 November 1997 and 28 February 1999. [157553]

[holding answer 9 April 2001]: The information requested falls within the responsibility of the National Statistician. I have asked him to reply.

To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer how many people in Hampstead and Highgate will benefit from the uprating of the national minimum wage. [158022]

The information requested falls within the responsibility of the National Statistician. I have asked him to reply.

To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer how many people in Pendle benefited from the introduction of the national minimum wage; and how many are estimated to benefit from its recent increase. [157772]

The information requested falls within the responsibility of the National Statistician. I have asked him to reply.

To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer what is the budget figure for the cost of maintaining, servicing and victualling official residences for Ministers in the 2000–01 Budget year. [146373]

[holding answer 22 January 2001]: This is a matter for the Prime Minister, who answered the right hon. Gentleman's question on 2 February 2001, Official Report, columns 331–32W.

To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer what assessment he has made of (a) the value of United Kingdom motor insurance claims and (b) the number of such claims in (i) 1999 and (ii) 2000. [157139]

Statistics on United Kingdom motor insurance claims are published annually by the Association of British Insurers. Such market trends are kept under review.

To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs what recent discussions he has held with EU colleagues in relation to legislation against holocaust denial; and if he will make a statement. [156113]