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Written Parliamentary Questions: 1st May 2007

OM Energy

Q:To ask the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry what the status is of the OM Energy projects; and what assessment he has made of the effectiveness of Government support for OM Energy.

A:Phase one of the OM Energy project has progressed well with its objectives being fully met including academic validation of the technology; the establishment of a UK company; the securing of private seed capital investment; the filing of a worldwide patent; and the design of a next generation laboratory prototype. Phase two will begin shortly and discussions are under way with top UK engineering firm to evaluate potential market applications and the design of commercial prototype.

Government support has been effective because much of this activity was achieved with assistance from UK Trade and Investment's Global Entrepreneur Programme. This has seen the formation of a pioneering UK company, developing an exciting technology in the renewable energy sector. (Ian McCartney, Minister of State (Trade & Investment), Department of Trade and Industry)


OM Energy

Q:To ask the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry how much has been spent by his Department on assistance to OM Energy Ltd.

A:OM Energy is a client of the UK Trade and Investment's Global Entrepreneur Programme (GEP) and an inward investment success having migrated from Russia in 2006. The company has received no financial help from the GEP. The type of assistance provided has been within the terms of the programme, namely advice, signposting, guidance and introductions to key relevant networks, including business angels.(Ian McCartney, Minister of State (Trade & Investment), Department of Trade and Industry)

Prisoners Release: Acquittals

Q:To ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department what financial and other assistance is available to those who are released from prison having been on remand and are found to be innocent.


A:Remand prisoners are eligible for all induction and resettlement programmes within the prisons and are able to access practical support to effectively help them re-integrate back in the community.

Currently there is no financial scheme that covers such prisoners. However, remand prisoners are entitled to travel warrants and in some cases to housing benefit and council tax benefit and mortgage interest for a limited time. (Gerry Sutcliffe, Parliamentary Under-Secretary, Home Office)

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