HC Deb 09 May 1932 vol 265 cc1552-3
67. Sir P. DAWSON

asked the Minister of Transport whether anything can be done to impress upon local authorities and public utility undertakings that, where capital expenditure is involved in carrying out remunerative works such as the extension of electric supply undertakings and distribution systems, this should be proceeded with, as many works of this nature which would otherwise have been carried out have been either postponed or stopped, to the detriment of our electrical industry?

Mr. PYBUS

I have already stated in a public speech at the British Industries Fair in February that in my opinion the development of productive services, such as that of electricity supply, should follow the normal course, and that the Minister of Health concurred in that view. I further expressed the hope that local authority electricity supply undertakings would not do anything to curtail development, but continue to make as rapid progress as possible.

Mr. HUTCHISON

Is my hon. Friend aware that in the Maidenhead district it is very difficult to extend the service owing to lack of capital?

Mr. PYBUS

I should like to see that question put upon the Paper.