§ MR. PICKERSGILLI beg to ask the President of the Board of Trade whether, in accordance with his promise given on the 5th April, he has considered the question of instituting an inquiry into the past and present management and working of the Gas Light and Coke Company, with a view to putting an end to the system whereby gas consumers on the north side of the Thames have to pay 3s. per 1,000 feet as against 2s. 3d. per 1,000 feet on the south side; and whether he is now in a position to make an announcement on the subject?
§ THE PRESIDENT OF THE BOARD OF TRADE (Mr. C. T. RITCHIE,) CroydonThe Board of Trade have been carefully considering this question. They have no statutory power to hold an inquiry. If the honourable Member thinks it desirable to move for a Committee of this House, I will see that the proposal receives careful consideration.