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Energy Bill

I welcome the Minister's declaration of his intention to come back with an outline of a scheme in the early part of the new year. I accept the good will and good faith of his commitments, and I simply ask him to bear in mind two time deadlines. Simply because this issue is new for his Department does not mean that it is new per se. Germany has already committed that by 2020 it will have developed such matters to a point where it will be economically non-dependent on Russian gas. In our own context, by 2010 when the European Union waste directive is applied to local authorities, many will face huge increases in charges for disposal of biodegradable waste, and I should think they will be looking for the sort of initiative that is to be found on the continent as a way to address such problems. If the Minister can grasp this opportunity and harness it to his enthusiasm, the House will be well served. On the basis of the assurances, I beg to ask leave to withdraw the amendment. Amendment, by leave, withdrawn. Lords amendment No. 65 agreed to [Special Entry] . Lords amendments Nos. 66 to 105 agreed to [one with Special Entry].