HC Deb 13 May 1931 vol 252 cc1184-5
31. Mr. TURTON

asked the Minister of Transport whether he is aware that, although the York Corporation were given powers, under the York Electricity (Extension, &c.) Special Order, 1929, to extend their area so as to include the parishes or townships of Welburn, Sheriff Hutton, Farlington, Stittenham, Bulmer, Whitwell, Terrington, Foston, Ganthorpe, Huttons Ambo and Barton-le-Willows, they have taken no steps to supply this part of their area with electricity, notwithstanding the demands of the inhabitants; whether he will urge the York Corporation to submit a scheme for this part of their area; and whether he will assist the undertakers in such a scheme by contributing a grant towards the cost in order to provide work for the unemployed in that district?

Mr. HERBERT MORRISON

I am informed that the Electricity Commissioners some time ago discussed with the York Corporation a scheme for the supply of electricity in the rural area for which the corporation obtained powers under the Special Order of 1929, and that the corporation, with assistance from the Unemployment Grants Committee, are carrying out works in the greater part of the area. They are not at present, however, satisfied that even with such assistance the supply to the villages referred to by the hon. Member would be self-supporting. The corporation are, however, carrying out a further canvass.

Mr. TURTON

Will the right hon. Gentleman find out the result of the canvass in those villages, and is he aware that the first canvass, taken six months ago, showed a percentage of over 90 per cent.?

Mr. MORRISON

I will cause further inquiries to be made on that point.

42. Captain P. MACDONALD

asked the Minister of Transport what is the present position in regard to electrification schemes under the Electricity Act in the South of England; how soon such schemes will be completed; and how the final cost will compare with the estimated cost?

Mr. HERBERT MORRISON

I am informed by the Central Electricity Board that the schemes under the Electricity (Supply) Act, 1926, for the South of England are progressing satisfactorily, but that it is too early to state definitely when the schemes will be completed, and how the final cost will compare with the estimates.

Major COLVILLE

May I ask if it is still the intention of the Government to electrify Liverpool Street station at a cost of £75,000,000, as outlined by a former Chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster?

Mr. MORRISON

That is not in the South of England area.