§ 16. Mr. Nabarroasked the Minister of Fuel and Power, in consideration of those provisions of the Electricity Supply Regulations, 1937, which require electricity undertakings constantly to maintain a supply of energy sufficient for the use of all consumers, what action should be 20 taken by a domestic or industrial consumer to secure redress for damages arising from interruption of electricity supply during power cuts, or diminution of supply during shedding of power load.
§ Mr. P. Noel-BakerThe provisions to which the hon. Member refers permit the discontinuance of the supply of electricity in case of emergency, and the electricity boards do not make a cut, except when excessive demand would cause a breakdown of their plant. I am advised that the boards are not, therefore, liable for any damage which may unfortunately result from power cuts, since they are acting within their legal rights.
§ Mr. NabarroWhen the right hon. Gentleman refers to an emergency, are we not going to have daily emergencies throughout next winter? Surely the industrial and domestic consumer must have some right to compensation in the event of injury or loss of life or damage.
§ Mr. Noel-BakerI have given the hon. Gentleman the answer with respect to the meaning of the Regulations to which he has referred. Of course, we may have power cuts, as there have been power cuts in many countries where demand exceeds supply.
§ Mr. W. Robson-BrownHas the right hon. Gentleman had a ruling from the Attorney-General on this point as to whether the Regulations relate to breakdowns? I doubt if that is the proper interpretation of it.
§ Mr. Noel-BakerIf the hon. Gentleman has any doubts he can probably advise somebody to go to the courts, but I am advised that the British Electricity Authority never cut power unless the excessive demand would cause a breakdown of their plant. That would be so much against the national interest that it is an emergency.
§ Mr. NabarroWhat is an emergency? Will the right hon. Gentleman define an emergency?