§ 57. Mr. PETHICK-LAWRENCEasked the Minister of Transport whether he is aware that considerable public objection has been taken to the proposed electric power line from Penrith to Whitehaven via Keswick; whether he is aware of any demand for it in Keswick; and whether, with a view to the preservation of the character of the Lakeland scenery, he will consider an alternative route passing to the north of Skiddaw?
§ Colonel ASHLEYNo application has yet been made by the Central Electricity Board for my consent which is necessary before the line referred to can be erected. In the event of such an application being made the local authorities will be given an opportunity to be heard and careful consideration will be given to any representations they may have to make.
§ Mr. PETHICK-LAWRENCEWill the right hon. and gallant Gentleman take into account the fact that any such system can only be made to pay by the industrialisation of this area, which very few Members of this House would wish to see?
§ Colonel ASHLEYI will certainly take that point into consideration, but I am not aware that that arises.