§ 32. Mr. DAYasked the Minister of Transport whether he is aware that householders in many districts who take their electric current through a coin-slot meter thereby pay higher charges than householders who run quarterly accounts, and that this difference in some districts amounts to as much as 2d. per unit; and will he consider the appointment of a Departmental Committee for the purpose of inquiring into these charges with the object of introducing legislation to make these charges uniform?
§ The MINISTER of TRANSPORT (Colonel Ashley)I am aware that there is a difference in the charges, but they are not comparable. In the case of supplies through slot meters,, the charge is normally an inclusive one for 1785 current, meter rental and rental of any wiring and fittings provided by the supply authority. In the case of quarterly accounts, the charges for these items are separate. I do not consider that any useful purpose would be served by the appointment of a Departmental Committee to inquire into the matter.
§ Mr. DAYIs it not the fact that slot meters are only used in the houses of the poorer people, and does not the right hon. Gentleman think that they should have the same advantage as people who pay their accounts quarterly?
§ Colonel ASHLEYThey can have the advantage by paying the accounts quarterly, and they often ask to be allowed to do so.
§ Mr. DAYIs it not the fact that many people cannot afford to pay these accounts quarterly, and have to take advantage of the slot system?