HC Deb 27 January 1949 vol 460 c1096
26. Mr. Osborne

asked the Minister of Fuel and Power if he will permit windows in the main shopping centres of London and the provincial cities to be lighted until 10 p.m., so as to encourage trade; and how much power, approximately, this would require.

Mr. Gaitskell

I could not agree to discriminate between one trader and another in the way suggested by the hon. Member, and as regards the last part of the Question, no such estimate can be made.

Mr. Osborne

Is the Minister aware that the shops in America are mostly open until 10 p.m. and are lit up, and that the workers can do their shopping after working hours? Does he not think it would be a good thing to have our shops lit up, and so brighten up our lives a bit?

Mr. Gaitskell

There may be something to be said for it, but we have to consider the peak load problem and the export of coal.

Mr. Osborne

Not after 6 p.m.

Mr. Charles Williams

Will the right hon. Gentleman now confirm that there is then no objection to the lighting of shops if it is not done by electricity or coal consumption?

Mr. Gaitskell

It is possible under the present order for permission to be given in those cases.

Mr. Martin Lindsay

Is not the right hon. Gentleman aware how poorly London compares as a tourist centre with such cities, for example, as Brussels, which are always lit up until midnight? It does not cost very much.