HC Deb 06 March 1947 vol 434 cc642-3
37. Sir W. Smithers

asked the Minister of Fuel and Power what consultations he had with the British Gas Council, as representing the gas industry, before the announcement on 22nd February that the gas supply position was such that the following 48 hours would determine if the Government should extend the electricity restrictions to gas and close down some of the gas works.

Mr. Shinwell

The statement referred to was made in the light of the coal supply and transport position on the day in ques- tion. This was not a matter on which the gas industry had any information and they were not, therefore, consulted in advance.

Sir W. Smithers

Is it not a fact that the Minister, with his dictatorial powers, rode roughshod over the experts, and that this accentuated the crisis?

Mr. Shinwell

I never ride roughshod over anyone.

Hon. Members

Oh.

Mr. Arthur Lewis

Is the Minister aware that the organised workers in the gas industry strongly dispute that the British Gas Council represents the gas industry, and that they claim that it represents only the employers? If any discussions are to take place: will he consult both sides of the industry?

Mr. Shinwell

This was a matter upon which we did not consult anybody associated with the industry. It affected the transport position and the availability of coal.

Sir W. Smithers

Is not that side of the House the organised gas industry?

38. Sir W. Smithers

asked the Minister of Fuel and Power what were respectively, the gas consumption, the gas-coal deliveries and stocks of the gas industry during the week ended 21st February, as compared with the three previous weeks.

Mr. Shinwell

Stocks of coal at gas works at 21st February were 934,000 tons, as compared with 1,112,000 tons at 24th January, 1947. Deliveries of coal to gas works in the four weeks to 21st February were 1,936,000 tons and 45,211 million cubic feet of gas were distributed by gas works in this period, including gas originating at coke ovens.

Sir W. Smithers

In view of the breakdown in fuel and power, is there not convincing evidence of a want of ordinary business foresight and initiative?

Mr. Shinwell

That is a matter which would require debate.