HC Deb 05 December 1950 vol 482 cc181-2
20. Mr. Henderson Stewart

asked the Secretary of State for Scotland what representations he has already received from the Scottish Council (Development and Industry), and what reply he has sent to the approach indicating grave concern made to him by the Council on 29th November on the danger to life and the curtailment of production resulting from the recent cuts in electricity power and light in industrial establishments in Scotland.

The Secretary of State for Scotland (Mr. McNeil)

I understand that the Scottish Council (Development and Industry) are examining this question in consultation with the Scottish Board for Industry, but they have not as yet made any representations to the Government on the subject.

Mr. Stewart

Is not the right hon. Gentleman aware of the serious speech made by Lord Bilsland at the meeting of the Council on 29th November, when he described the matter as grave, and is not the right hon. Gentleman aware that by allowing these unheralded cuts to continue he is playing with potential tragedy in many firms?

Mr. McNeil

I have three things to say in reply to that. First, I have seen the report of the speech and, as it was made by such a responsible person, I naturally viewed it with concern. Secondly, questions upon this operation plainly should be addressed to my right hon. Friend the Minister of Fuel and Power. Thirdly, I was asked whether any representations had been made, and I said that the answer is "No."

Mr. Speaker

Mr. Emrys Hughes.

Mr. Stewart

On a point of order. May I put this point to you, Mr. Speaker? The right hon. Gentleman says we should address questions on this matter to the Minister of Fuel and Power. Is he aware that we are not allowed to put down Questions of this nature? Am I not entitled to put to the Secretary of State for Scotland a Question on a matter affecting the health and life of the Scottish people?

Mr. Speaker

That is not a point of order as far as I am concerned, and I know nothing about it.

Mr. Stewart

In view of the unsatisfactory nature of the reply and the great importance of this question, I beg to give notice that I will raise the matter on the Adjournment.

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