§ 73. Colonel HOWARD-BURYasked the Minister of Health whether he is aware that, since his attention was called to the action of the Barnsley Town Council in threatening with eviction tenants of municipal houses who have gas installed in their homes, the town councils of Dover and Wrexham are showing a similar hostile attitude towards the installation of gas in new housing estates; and whether he will take steps to ensure that tenants have freedom of choice regarding public services for heating and lighting in their homes?
§ The PARLIAMENTARY SECRETARY to the MINISTRY of HEALTH (Miss Lawrence)No, Sir. My right hon. Friend has received no representations to the effect suggested. He will, however, be glad to consider any evidence which the hon. and gallant Member may have indicating that the councils in question are making an unreasonable use of their discretion in this matter.
§ Colonel HOWARD-BURYIs the hon. Member aware that in both cases the gas company is privately owned and that on one estate 95 per cent. of the tenants desire to have gas, but are prevented from having it because the electricity supply is municipally owned? Can the hon. lady take steps to see that these tenants are given freedom of choice?
§ Miss LAWRENCEMy right hon. Friend will be glad to consider any evidence which the hon. and gallant Member may bring forward.