Orders of the Day — New Clause 8 — Rural Fuel Discount Scheme — 25 Jun 2007 at 20:00

I beg to move, That the clause be read a Second time.

The new clause would reduce the burden of high fuel costs on residents in remote rural areas, such as those in the highlands and islands, including in parts of my constituency and those of other hon. Members. Some hon. Members here were present for a similar debate this time last year, and I welcome the opportunity to return to the subject. I recall that Labour Members chose to vote against the new clause on that occasion, and Conservative Members by and large abstained. I hope to have a little more support this time, although I note-perhaps this is an augury for the future-that the Chancellor of the Exchequer did not vote last time, so perhaps this is an issue on which he wishes to move forward when he becomes Prime Minister in a few days' time. However, as my hon. Friend the Member for West Aberdeenshire and Kincardine (Sir Robert Smith) says from a sedentary position, his track record may suggest that his heart does not warm to this issue.

Question put, That the clause be read a Second time:-

The House divided: Ayes 55, Noes 268.

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