§ 67. Mr. HARDIEasked the Minister of Transport the surplus electrical power at the existing water-power schemes in the Highlands; and whether he will arrange for such power being made available to those desiring to set up industries in those districts?
§ The PARLIAMENTARY SECRETARY to the MINISTRY of TRANSPORT (Captain Austin Hudson)The total plant installed in statutory hydro-electric stations in the Highlands is approximately 117,000 k.w., and the maximum demand in 1935 some 86,000 k.w., the overall load factor being a little over 47. I do not doubt that the supply authorities would be glad to enter into negotiations for the use of any available surplus electrical energy.
§ Mr. HARDIEMay I ask how it was that a company, seeking to establish a firm there for the manufacture of calcium carbide, was denied access to this surplus power; and will he ask his Department why that cannot be arranged now?
§ Captain HUDSONI think the hon. Gentleman had better bring the particular case of that company to my attention.