HC Deb 05 November 1945 vol 415 cc908-9
95. Mr. Sidney Marshall

asked the Minister of Fuel and Power if he is aware that the Kent Electric Power Company, Ltd., before agreeing to bring a supply to the owner of Basing Farm, Cowden, Kent, who is an attested milk producer, require a payment of £500 towards the cost and a guaranteed revenue of £150 per annum for five years; and, as such terms are unlikely to encourage farmers to bring their farms up to date or to encourage milk production, will he take steps to see that such demands are considerably modified or waived.

The Minister of Fuel and Power (Mr. Shinwell)

I understand that some revision of these terms may be possible if another farm on the road of the proposed mains is prepared to take a supply of electricity. The matter is not one in which, under my present powers, I am able to intervene. As regards the general question of rural electricity supplies, I would refer the hon. Member to my reply to the hon. Member for Eye (Mr. Granville) on 9th October.

Mr. Stokes

May I ask whether the Minister will take powers to interfere in these matters, because these charges are preposterous, having regard to the facilities given by the electric supply companies?

Mr. Shinwell

Of course, I shall take steps in due course.

Mr. De la Bère

Is the Minister aware that I am asking him to do this during the course of the week?