§ 11. Mr. LEWISasked the President of the Board of Trade whether he proposes to introduce legislation in accordance with the recommendations of the departmental committee appointed to advise as to the amendment of existing gas legislation?
§ Mr. RUNCIMANThis matter is under consideration.
§ Mr. LEWISWill the right hon. Gentleman bear in mind the fact that, owing to the increased taxation of fuel oil, the question of the price at which gas can be supplied for industrial purposes is one of great urgency?
§ Mr. ROSS TAYLORWill the right hon. Gentleman also bear in mind that the National Fuel and Power Committee, as long ago as August, 1928, said that the legislation which is now proposed by the Departmental Committee was then very urgent?
§ Mr. RUNCIMANYes, Sir, it is true that they did make that recommendation, but the Board of Trade is charged with the duty of looking after the interests of the consumer as well as of the producer.