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Overhead Lines (Exempt Installations) Order 2010

I thank the Minister for his explanation of the order because, for a simple soul such as me, the Explanatory Note was as clear as mud. We agree that upgrading is essential to electricity lines, given that so much power is lost in transmission and in coping with adverse weather conditions. Overhead lines are not the most popular form of transmission, so could the Minister confirm and amplify what consultation—apart from that with Natural England, to which he referred—has taken place, particularly with rural organisations? Will he assure the Committee that local communities, particularly those that are directly affected, will have the ability to express concerns, and influence proceedings, and thereby let their voice be heard? It is a very sensitive issue for those communities. Subject to satisfactory answers to those questions, the order meets with the approval of these Benches.