26. Mr. De la Bèreasked the Minister of Transport whether he will introduce legislation to make it obligatory on the electricity supply companies to charge no higher rate per unit for electricity supplied through slot-meters than is charged through the ordinary supply meters?
§ The Minister of Transport (Captain Wallace)I am informed that any difference in the rate per unit is usually attributable, not to a higher charge being made for the electricity supplied through pre-payment meters, but to the inclusion of an amount for meter rental, which in the case of quarterly meters is charged separately, and for any other charges which may be due for such services as assisted wiring.
Mr. De la BèreIs my right hon. and gallant Friend aware that three years have passed since the McGowan report, that there are 9,000,000 users of electricity in this country mostly dissatisfied, and that promise after promise has been made; and will he say why the Government do not fulfil their pledge to end the electricity muddle once and for all?
§ Captain WallaceIf my hon. Friend will refer to the answer I gave not very long ago he will find the exact position.
Mr. De la BèreDoes my right hon. and gallant Friend realise that that position is most unsatisfactory?
§ Captain WallaceI think my hon. Friend has said that before.
§ Mr. McGovernIs it not an anomaly that people who pay cash are treated more harshly than those who take credit?