HC Deb 10 March 1925 vol 181 cc1117-8
49. Mr. HARDIE

asked the Chancellor of the Exchequer if the Government are retaining the electrical generating plant, at Gretna, which is the only lighting service in the district, or if they contemplate placing the plant under the control of the local authority for the area?

Mr. GUINNESS

The electrical generating plant at Gretna, which was intended for manufacturing purposes, is quite unsuitable for the present limited requirements. I understand, however, that negotiations are being conducted with persons locally interested, on the basis that they shall obtain a small generating plant and acquire from the Government such distributing cables, etc., as would be necessary for the supply of electric current to houses.

Mr. HARDIE

Have not the Government considered the position of the inhabitants of that war time town called Gretna; are they not aware that by placing this in the hands of a local body of individuals they are placing the inhabitants at the mercy of what may become a company, and are they not aware that the present plant is not only equal to lighting Gretna town, but also the roads?

Mr. GUINNESS

I have no evidence that the local authority have applied. If the 'hon. Member will give me any details, shall be glad to look into them.

Mr. HARDIE

I shall be glad to supply them.