§ 37. Mr. LOOKERasked the Minister of Transport whether he is aware that the Greater London and Counties Trust, Limited, incorporated to supply electricity to the South of England, is raising, or proposes to raise, a large portion of its capital in America; and what steps he proposes to take to ensure that the companies' requirements for electrical plant and equipment are placed in this country?
§ Colonel ASHLEYI have seen statements in the Press to the effect of the first part of the question. As regards the second part, my approval is not required to the placing of orders for electrical plant and equipment by any electrical undertaking.
§ Mr. LOOKERIs it consistent with the policy of the right hon. Gentleman's Department that the electrification of England should be carried out by American or other foreign capital rather than by British capital; and does he consider 1715 that he has any obligation to insure that the orders for plant are placed in the United Kingdom rather than in foreign countries?
§ Mr. SPEAKERThat is the question on the Paper in almost the same words.
§ Mr. HANNONIn reference to the second part of the question, has the right hon. and gallant Gentleman not had a definite assurance from this trust that they are prepared to purchase British machinery for all their requirements?
§ Colonel ASHLEYI have received a communication to that effect.
§ Mr. HARDIEWas not the hon. Gentleman who put the question a member of the Committee that gave these powers?