59. Lieut.-Colonel Wentworth Schofieldasked the Minister of Fuel and Power how many persons on the North-Western Electricity Consultative Council were appointed by him as representing industry; whether he is satisfied that this small proportion of industrial representatives on these consultative councils ensures that industrial interests as regards electricity are given the necessary priority in the present economic emergency; and if he will take steps at an early date to review the system of appointing these consultative committees with a view to its amendment.
Mr. LloydThe North-Western Electricity Consultative Council was constituted by my predecessor according to the provisions of Section 7 of the Electricity Act, 1947. It comprises among its 27 members a deputy chairman who was nominated by the National Union of Manufacturers, another member nominated by the Federation of British Industries, and a third member from the Association of the British Chambers of Commerce. In addition, it is known that other members have industrial interests. I will bear in mind the point raised by my hon. and gallant Friend, but any major change would require legislation.