§ 21. Mr. Rankinasked the Secretary of State for Scotland what is the estimated peak demand and peak capacity for electrical supply for this winter as compared with last in that part of Scotland which is administered by the North of Scotland Hydro-Electric Development Board.
§ The Joint Under-Secretary of State for Scotland (Mr. Thomas Fraser)The peak capacity of plant in the North of Scotland district for this winter is 13 220,000 kws. The maximum load recorded up to 12th January is 209,000 kws. including an export of 25,000 kws. to Central Scotland. Under extreme cold weather conditions the peak maximum demand is estimated to be 235,000 kws. The maximum load during the winter of 1947—48, was 194,000 kws., including export to central Scotland, and the peak capacity, 218,000 kws.
§ Mr. RankinIn view of the fact that in exceptional weather a deficiency is shown, would my hon. Friend say what steps are then taken to meet the demand?
§ Mr. FraserSpreading the load as far as we can in the industrial areas.
§ Mr. RankinThen the domestic consumer is not penalised in order to maintain a surplus?
§ Mr. FraserNo, Sir. Indeed, in the area served by the North of Scotland Board there is not this great demand in excess of capacity.