§ 41. Mr. McGOVERNasked the Minister of Transport whether he is aware that grave charges have been made by W. J. Edmonds, 58, North Down Road, Plymouth, that electricity was being supplied direct from the mains without a recording meter to various individuals and concerns in the City of Plymouth, and in consequence the city was defrauded of large sums of money, and that a local investigation by the town council was suppressed by the influence of the parties involved in the allegations; and whether he will make inquiry into the matter?
§ Mr. HORE-BELISHAThe answer to the first part of the question is "Yes," to the second part "No," and to the third part "Certainly," if the hon. Gentleman can lay before me any facts which lie within the competence of my Department and would seem to call for the course suggested.
§ Mr. McGOVERNHas the right hon. Gentleman's atention been drawn to these charges in the document, and is it a fact that they are so grave, reflecting on a large number of local people, that an inquiry should be made?
§ Mr. HORE-BELISHAI am ready to answer that question. For many years past this gentleman has written to me and other Members of Parliament about certain grievances which he entertains. He was dismissed from the employment of the council. There was a local inquiry, but, as far as I can see, none of these matters come within the competence of my Department. I should be only too ready to consider any facts which the hon. Member can adduce which are within the competence of my Department.
§ Mr. McGOVERNI will send them.