HC Deb 27 July 1937 vol 326 cc2856-7
60. Mr. Hopkin

asked the Minister of Transport whether he is aware that the householders of the Cross Hands, Gorslas, Cefneithyn, and Cwmmawr districts were obliged to spend £653 11s. on the changeover from the D.C. supply by the colliery company to the A.C. supply from the Llanelly and District Electric Company, Limited; and whether he will set up an inquiry into all the circumstances of the change-over to the electric company and call for a report?

Captain Hudson

I understand that the non-statutory undertaking of the colliery company was acquired by the authorised undertakers by agreement. The undertakers voluntarily assisted consumers in changing or adapting their apparatus free of cost for the changed supply, but they were not prepared to bear the cost of putting consumers' wiring in order in cases where this was necessary in the interests of safety. The undertakers submitted that they were under no legal liability to do so, and the matter is one which I have no power to decide.

Mr. Hopkin

If I send the hon. and gallant Gentleman details of how this £653 was spent, will he re-open the matter?

Captain Hudson

My last sentence was: "The matter is one which I have no power to decide." I may tell the hon. Member that we are proposing that power should be taken in the contemplated electricity legislation.

Mr. Hopkin

Will the Minister hold an inquiry, as it is an urgent matter for the people in the district?

Captain Hudson

I will see if we have any power to do so.

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