Written questions by Medi.

Pursuant to the Answer of 14 October 2024 to Question 7928 on Electricity: Wales, what assessment he has made of the adequacy of planned investment in the (a) distribution and (b) transmission grid to meet Net Zero targets.

As the independent regulator, Ofgem assesses network owners’ investment plans with regard to their duties, including to support net zero. Government supports Ofgem’s ambition for acceleration of network build and strategic investment in the next electricity transmission price control, covering the period 2026-31. Ofgem’s current consultation on the framework for the next electricity distribution price control (starting in 2028) identifies the need for significant investment ahead of need, strategic planning, and regulatory changes to prepare the GB distribution networks for net zero.

If she will make an assessment of the potential merits of zero rating for VAT buildings retrofitted to (a) Passivhaus and (b) AECB standards.

This Government is committed to improving the quality and sustainability of our housing stock, through improvements such as low carbon heating, insulation, solar panels, and batteries. This will be vital to making the UK more energy resilient and meeting our 2050 Net Zero commitment.Installations of qualifying energy-saving materials in residential accommodation and buildings used solely for a charitable purpose benefit from a temporary VAT zero rate until March 2027, after which they will revert to the reduced rate of VAT at five per cent.VAT is a broad-based tax on consumption and the 20 per cent standard rate applies to most goods and services. VAT is the UK’s second largest tax forecast to raise £171 billion in 2024/25. Taxation is a vital source of revenue that helps to fund vital public services.One of the key considerations when assessing a new VAT relief is whether the cost saving is likely to be passed on to consumers. Evidence suggests that businesses only partially pass on any savings from lower VAT rates. In some cases, reliefs do not represent good value for money, as savings will not always be passed on to consumers.The Government has no current plans to formally review the VAT treatment of building works. However, all taxes are kept under review as part of the tax policymaking process. The Chancellor makes decisions on tax policy at fiscal events in the context of the overall public finances.

How much Local Power plan funding will be allocated between each of the UK nations.

The Local Power Plan will be delivered through Great British Energy (GBE). GBE will benefit all four nations, creating jobs and building supply chains across the UK, while respecting the devolution settlements. GBE’s funding envelope provides a total amount to operate across all UK Nations. GBE will be capitalised with £125 million in 2025‑26 to set up the company and begin delivery on its functions.

Media and Sport, if she will invite representatives of the cruise industry to join the Tourism Industry Council.

DCMS recognises that the cruise sector makes a significant contribution to the UK economy, namely £9.4 billion and supporting 82,000 jobs pre-pandemic. As a new government we are reviewing the composition and terms of reference of the Tourism Industry Council with the aim of securing broad and diverse representation from a variety of industries and delivering clear outcomes for the sector.

Communities and Local Government, pursuant to the Answer of 25 July 2024 to Question 1070 on Anglesey Freeport, what progress she has made on the decision on the proposed Anglesey Freeport.

The future of the Freeports Programme will be confirmed after the Spending Review has concluded. We will return to outstanding decisions on individual Freeports, including Anglesey Freeport, at that point.

What steps he is taking to expand the capacity of the electricity distribution network in Wales.

The government is committed to expanding the electricity network to support its Clean Energy Superpower mission and is working closely with Ofgem and industry to mobilise the required investment. Under the most recent price control for electricity distribution, covering 2023-2028, Ofgem has allowed £22.2bn for upfront network investment across GB, including Wales, of which £3.1bn is set aside for network upgrades to help the grid ready for low carbon technologies. Additionally, the National Infrastructure Commission is providing recommendations in early 2025 on the policy decisions required to make the electricity distribution network fit for net zero.

What estimate he has made of the number of properties in Wales that are unable to generate their own electricity due to capacity constraints in the electricity distribution network.

The Department does not hold data on this. For generation of 3.68kW or less a property owner only has to notify the distribution network operator (DNO) post-installation. For larger installations the DNO will assess the impact of the proposed generation on the network, and either allow it to connect immediately or provide a connection date, and any costs.

If she will make an assessment of the potential merits of a discounted Railcard for (a) workers in the NHS and (b) other key workers.

Affordability of rail travel is one of our key objectives. However, any concessions made to rail fares policy must balance benefits for certain groups against the impacts on taxpayers. Currently there are no plans for offering a discounted railcard for NHS and other key workers.