HC Deb 06 November 1947 vol 443 cc1987-8
30. Mr. Erroll

asked the Minister of Fuel and Power how much coal he estimates will be saved during the winter by the ban on the lighting of cinema organ consoles.

The Minister of Fuel and Power (Mr. Gaitskell)

This is one of many voluntary economies proposed by the Cinematographic Exhibitors' Association of Great Britain and Ireland which exhibitors all over the country are to make during the winter months. No separate estimate, in terms of coal, has been made of the savings expected from this particular economy.

Mr. Erroll

Is it the case that there is no statutory prohibition of such lighting?

Mr. Gaitskell

It is purely voluntary.

Mr. Henry Strauss

Whatever the case for making these instruments invisible, is there not a stronger case for making them inaudible?