§ 30. Mr. A. V. ALEXANDERasked the Minister of Transport what steps he proposes to take with regard to any petitions and letters received from consumers 800 of electricity in Bournemouth, Parkstone, and Poole asking for a reduction of the maximum charge for electricity in those districts?
§ Colonel ASHLEYCertain representations have recently been received with regard to the prices charged for electricity by the Bournemouth and Poole Electricity Supply Company, Limited. These representations are being considered, and, in the first instance, the Electricity Commissioners will communicate with the company on the subject.
§ Mr. ALEXANDERAm I to understand that it is not at present proposed to hold an inquiry?
§ Colonel ASHLEYAs I explained to the hon. Member, I think before the holidays, when I receive a request either from the local body or from consumers in the area, it will be my duty to go into the matter and hold an inquiry if I think it right to do so.
§ Mr. ALEXANDERDo I not understand that the Minister has already received, not only one petition from at least 20 consumers, but a large number of letters from individual consumers?
§ Colonel ASHLEYNo, Sir; I have not received any communication which can be regarded as an official request for an inquiry. If the bodies which can make such a request, that is to say, the corporation or 20 consumers, write to me officially, I will at once go into the matter.
§ Mr. HARDIEWould the Minister say under what Act he is now prosposing to take action?
§ Colonel ASHLEYI think the Act of 1919, but I should have to have notice of that question.
§ Mr. HARDIEIs the Minister aware of the confusion that arises all through these districts because his Department has never made it plain that what applies to one area will also apply to any other case, and are steps going to be taken to rectify that?
§ Mr. ERNEST BROWNDoes the word "consumer" include private consumers, and can 20 private consumers of electricity forward a petition?
§ Colonel ASHLEYYes, Sir; a petition can be forwarded by 20 individuals, all of whom consume electricity.