1 NOVEMBER 2008, Page 95

Q. I am loath to introduce energy-saving light bulbs in

our historic house, as they are so unattractive. But given that it seems inevitable and one will have to, is there a preferred brand that one should look out for, Mary?

Name and address withheld A. Perhaps you could take your lead from the National Trust, which has decided to make the ‘switch’ in its properties. The Trust’s bulb of choice for historic interiors is called the Master Classic. It is a low-energy halogen bulb supplied by Philips and comes in two choices: 20 watts, equivalent to a 40-watt incandescent bulb; and 30 watts, equivalent to a 60-watt conventional bulb. Apparently, each bulb will save consumers £41.92 a year.