24. Mr. De la Bèreasked the Minister of Fuel and Power whether, in connection with the installation of electricity in farms and buildings in the rural areas, he will introduce legislation, with a view to abolishing the high charges for installation and long-term guarantees, which are at present demanded by many undertakings.
§ Mr. ShinwellI am considering these matters in connection with the general reorganisation of the electricity supply industry.
Mr. De la BèreIs the right hon. Gentleman aware that these matters have been considered year after year and that the rural areas have never been able to get electricity?
§ Mr. ShinwellI am well aware that there has been a great deal of delay, but I am going to see that the matter is dealt with very shortly.
31. Mr. De la Bèreasked the Minister of Fuel and Power the total number of applications from villages throughout the country to have electricity supplied which have not been fulfilled; and the reasons for the non-fulfilment of these applications.
§ Mr. ShinwellThese applications are made to electricity undertakings and not to the Electricity Commissioners or to my Ministry. The information asked for is, therefore, not in my possession.
Mr. De la BèreDoes the right hon. Gentleman appreciate that he should have this information, and that otherwise nothing will be done and the matter will go on from year to year, as I have already complained?
§ Mr. ShinwellIf the hon. Gentleman is very anxious to obtain the information, I shall make inquiries, but in fact it would make no difference to the present position because, owing to a shortage of plant and labour, we cannot get ahead with a lot of work.