§ 49. Viscount SANDONasked the Minister of Transport whether he will consider the desirability of taking power to safeguard the consumer by inflicting penalties on electricity companies where the power and light meters are in fault and record excessive readings, and by inspection of such meters?
§ The MINISTER of TRANSPORT (Colonel Ashley)I do not propose to suggest an alteration in the existing law on this subject, which, in my opinion, already adequately safeguards the interests of the consumer.
§ Viscount SANDONCan the right hon. Gentleman say what are the safeguards?
§ Colonel ASHLEYThe safeguards are, I think, adequate. The aggrieved party can apply for the appointment of an electrical inspector, who then decides the matter.
§ Viscount SANDONAt a cost.
§ Captain GARRO-JONESHow is it possible for the consumer to know whether the meter is overcharging or not? Is it incumbent upon him to have an inspection whenever he goes into a new dwelling?
§ Colonel ASHLEYI should think he would ascertain that from the size of his bill.