§ 41. Mr. Boothbyasked the Secretary of State for Scotland whether he is aware that farmers in the Auchterless district of Aberdeenshire have made repeated applications to the Grampian Company for a supply of electricity in vain; and what steps he is taking to secure the electrification of rural districts in Scotland.
§ The Secretary of State for Scotland (Mr. Westwood)I am aware that there is a demand from farmers in the Auchterless district for a supply of electricity and I am informed that the Grampian Electricity Supply Company are actively investigating the possibility of formulating a development scheme for the district. The question of the supply of electricity within the area of the Grampian Company is, of course, a matter for the Minister of Fuel and Power. As regards supplies in the North of Scotland district outside the areas of supply of other authorised undertakers, the North of Scotland Hydro-Electric Board have prepared a number of Schemes which will be put into operation as soon as circumstances permit. Schemes for other areas are under consideration.
§ Mr. BoothbyIs the right hon. Gentleman aware that one of the reasons for the shocking delay in electrifying rural Scotland is the absence of suitable timber to make poles? Will he bring pressure to bear on the Board of Trade to import more timber from Europe at the earliest possible moment?
§ Mr. WestwoodI am aware that there are difficulties in the way of supply of materials, not only for the supply of electricity but for many other things which we require at the present time.
§ Mr. WillisWill my right hon. Friend consult with the Ministry of Supply as to making these poles of steel, because 1 understand there is a possibility of that being done?
§ Mr. WestwoodThat question would require to be put on the Order Paper.