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Gormley light bulb consultation welcome, but challenges may lie ahead

Issued : Friday 10 October, 2008

I would like welcome the publication of John Gormley's consultation document on restricting the use of incandescent light bulbs.

According to media reports, this document will be proposing that the restrictions be phased in over three years. When this idea was first suggested, Mr Gormley wanted to ram the measures through in a matter of months. At the time I pointed out to him that such a timeframe was completely unrealistic given that a process of consultation would be required and that any regulations would have to go through a process of scrutiny by the EU Commission. The consultation will also allow the public to raise practical considerations that may need to be taken into account.

While an overexcited Minister this morning characterised our concerns as 'scare stories', I am glad that in scrapping plans to rush this scheme through, he has taken heed of our advice.

The scheme is not yet done and dusted, and must undergo scrutiny at EU level. The Commission will be looking at this in terms of compatibility with EU law and the free movement of goods, which could still cause delays in its implementation. I would urge the minister to bear that in mind, and to formulate a contingency plan to take account of that eventuality and any other challenges that may arise.

He must also consider measures to assist poorer families that may find the initial outlay on energy efficient light bulbs too costly.