HC Deb 27 June 1949 vol 466 c730
19. Major Tufton Beamish

asked the Minister of Fuel and Power whether he is aware that the Gas Council has not yet made any decision regarding leave and pay arrangements for employees who wish to attend Territorial Army camps; what is the cause of this lack of decision; and when an announcement can be expected.

The Parliamentary Secretary to the Ministry of Fuel and Power (Mr. Robens)

Owing to the short time which has elapsed since vesting date, the Gas Council has not been able to unify the widely varying practices of the gas undertakings in the country before nationalisation. The matter has, therefore, been left to the area boards to settle locally, but the Gas Council have asked the boards to deal with applications sympathetically.

Major Beamish

Is not this a very simple decision to take; could not the Gas Council co-ordinate this matter and take a decision at once?

Mr. Robens

There will be a unified policy within the areas of different gas boards this year. It is intended to formulate a national policy for next year.

Major Beamish

Will the practice vary between areas?

Mr. Robens

We shall unify it within the areas, but it will vary between the areas this year.

Major Beamish

Why?

Mr. Robens

Because of the varying practices followed in private enterprise prior to nationalisation.