§ 6. Mr. Kendallasked the Minister of Fuel and Power what instructions have been given to electricity companies to cut off light and power from war production factories without any warning.
Major Lloyd GeorgeConditions arising from the war produce from time to time local dislocations of electricity supply which, unless dealt with promptly by reducing the demand on the affected sections, may set up a cumulative disturbance, resulting in widespread stoppage of supplies. To guard against this, arrangements have been made whereby each undertaker, on receipt of instructions, switches out a proportion of his consumers (normally not exceeding 10 per cent.). The selection of the consumers is made by the undertaker, subject to a general direction that supplies to high priority consumers named by regional production boards must be maintained to the fullest possible extent.
§ Mr. KirkwoodIs it correct, as stated in the Question, that, without any warning to the consumer, electrical power is cut off?
Major Lloyd GeorgeI think that is so. It is not possible always to give a warning. For instance, if a barrage balloon cable fouls a high tension cable, it may be necessary to cut off the electricity without warning.
§ Mr. W. J. BrownIs it not the case that cutting off electricity supplies without warning may involve much damage and danger to life, and will the right hon. and gallant Gentleman avoid that if possible?
Major Lloyd GeorgeAs I pointed out, it is done only in very exceptional cases. It is due to circumstances over which we have no control, for instance, as I have mentioned, the fouling of a high tension cable and a barrage balloon cable.