HC Deb 09 October 1945 vol 414 cc7-8
6. Colonel Thornton-Kemsley

asked the Minister of Fuel and Power if he is aware that the electric power companies had set aside £100,000,000 sterling for post-war expansion, but that the Government's proposals for nationalisation in this industry have created an uncertainty which is unfavourable to industrial expansion; and what steps he proposes to take to ensure that cheap electric power is made available at the earliest possible date in all rural areas.

Mr. Shinwell

I am aware that many electricity supply undertakings have prepared schemes for post-war development. In considering the re-organisation of the electricity supply industry, I shall not overlook these schemes nor the necessity of improving electricity supplies in the rural areas.

Colonel Thornton-Kemsley

Would the right hon. Gentleman agree that the one thing to be avoided at all costs is the dislocation of the supply of electricity to rural areas, which was the danger foreseen both by the McGowan and by the Cooper Committees?

Mr. Shinwell

That matter is very present to my mind.

13. Mr. Palmer

asked the Minister of Fuel and Power whether he is yet in a position to state the policy of His Majesty's Government on electricity supply reorganisation in view of the declared intention of the Government to introduce a plan for the co-ordination of the fuel and power industries.

Mr. Shinwell

I hope to make a statement on this matter in the near future.