Written question asked by Harry Cohen (Labour) on Wednesday, 24 July 2002, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Tuesday, 15 October 2002. It was answered by Lord Moonie (Labour) on Tuesday, 15 October 2002 on behalf of the Ministry of Defence.

Ministry of Defence

Question: To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, what assessment has been made of the impact of his Department's policy on radar coverage and low flying upon the Government's policy to expand wind energy technology; and if he will make a statement.

Answer: Harry Cohen: To ask the Secretary of State for Defence what assessment has been made of the impact of his Department's policy on radar coverage and low flying upon the Government's policy to expand wind energy technology; and if he will make a statement. [73789] Dr. Lewis Moonie: Ministry of Defence officials are currently involved in a steering group with the Department of Trade and Industry, Civil Aviation Authority, National Air Traffic Services and the British Wind Energy Association. The group aims to address some of the issues that lead to the MOD and others making objections to developers' proposals. The MOD is currently assisting in a DTI-sponsored project by QinetiQ to study the effects of turbines on radar. The MOD is acutely aware of the government's stated aim to achieve 10 per cent. of the United Kingdom's energy from green sources by 2010 and makes every effort to assist in achieving this. However, the Government is also committed to maintaining flight safety and the operational effectiveness of the Armed Forces.

Secondary information

Type: Written question
Reference: 73789; 390 c543W;390 c545W
Session: 2001-02
Subjects: Construction Hazards Planning permission Location Radar Military aircraft Low flying Renewable energy Wind power
Link: View this Written question on www.publications.parliament.uk