HC Deb 08 June 1944 vol 400 c1488
17. Wing-Commander Grant - Ferris

asked the Secretary of State for India what practical steps the Government of India is taking to encourage the electricity industry in India now; and what long term plans are envisaged in this connection.

Mr. Amery

Additional capacity amounting to 200 megawatts has been supplied to India since the outbreak of war, and a further 150 megawatts are on order. The Government of India have the development of electricity supply in the forefront of their post-war reconstruction plans. They 'have already scheduled additional plant requirements for the addition of 560 megawatts to the existing capacity of public utilities and have further requirements under consideration. In addition, Provincial and State Governments are considering a number of important projects and the Government of India propose to set up a Technical Power Board to scrutinise and co-ordinate all schemes.

Sir Stanley Reed

Will the Minister not circulate in the OFFICIAL REPORT, or in some other appropriate way, a statement showing the enormous developments in India, and the active part the Government have taken therein?

Mr. Amery

I will consider that.