HC Deb 06 March 1945 vol 408 cc1814-5
34. Mr. Higgs

asked the Minister of Fuel and Power on what authority the Electricity Commissioners have authorised undertakings to purchase electrical equipment for post-war requirements from specified areas such as Scotland, the Northeast coast and South Wales.

Mr. T. Smith

I presume my hon. Friend is referring to a letter sent by the Electricity Commission to all authorised electricity undertakers on 1st February. The purpose of this letter is, I think, clear from the following extract: It would be of the greatest assistance in maintaining employment at the highest possible level on the conclusion of hostilities, or as and when war contracts are terminated, if undertakers could now proceed to place advance orders. The letter, which goes on to point to areas from which it is believed that reasonable delivery is most likely, was sent with the approval of the Treasury, the Board of Trade, and my Ministry.

Mr. Higgs

Is my hon. Friend not aware that these are not the main producing centres of electrical equipment? Does he intend to direct this industry into those new areas?

Mr. T. Smith

The letter sent out made it clear, I think, what the purpose was. I believe my hon. Friend will agree that one cannot maintain full employment after hostilities unless some planning is carried out.

Mr. James Griffiths

Would not the Minister agree that it is far better to direct industries to go where people live and have established their homes, than to drive people from their homes?