HC Deb 08 May 1950 vol 475 cc18-9
28. Mr. Marples

asked the Minister of Fuel and Power if he will place in the Library a model of the proposed North Wales Hydro-Electric schemes, together with photographs of the landscape as it is at present.

Mr. P. Noel-Baker

Yes, Sir; after the Whitsun Recess I will place a model of the country affected, and of the proposed schemes, in the Library of the House.

29. Mr. Marples

asked the Minister of Fuel and Power what is the estimated extra capital cost of the North Wales Hydro-Electric schemes over a coal-fired power station capable of producing a similar output; and how is this extra cost divided between civil engineering and generating plant.

Mr. P. Noel-Baker

I regret that the necessary surveys are not yet complete; I am unable, therefore, to give the hon. Member the estimates for which he asks.

Mr. Marples

In order that Members of this House may be able to make an accurate assessment of the position in North Wales, where there is great disquiet, will the right hon. Gentleman see that all the necessary information is placed before us?

Mr. Noel-Baker

At the proper moment, of course, all that will be done, but it cannot be done before the survey has been made.

Mr. Keeling

In view of the small saving of coal through the adoption of this scheme—of which the right hon. Gentleman's predecessor gave us the figures in the last Parliament—and the havoc it will bring to the Snowdonia National Park, will the Minister give an assurance that he will reserve judgment on the scheme until we get the Bill?

Mr. Noel-Baker

Yes, Sir, the hon. Gentleman may be quite sure that I will jealously consider the natural beauty of the region.