§ 33. Mr. A. J. Irvineasked the Minister of Fuel and Power whether he will, within the powers conferred upon him by Section 5 of the Electricity Act, 1947, give a general direction to the central authority to ensure that greater safety precautions are to be taken in sub-stations.
§ Mr. Geoffrey LloydNo, Sir. Section 53 is the relevant Section.
§ Mr. IrvineIs the Minister aware that the machinery of joint consultation, no matter what the relevant Section may be, in this matter and in other matters appears to be breaking down to the great dissatisfaction of those concerned? Is he also aware that recommendations arising out of an accident some time ago at Bishopsgate that nearly resulted in serious 872 loss of life have been made and accepted but not implemented by those responsible? Will he do something about it?
§ Mr. LloydThe Act passed by the previous Government clearly lays down in Section 53 that this is one of those matters that should be dealt with by joint consultation. I should not like to assume simply on what the hon. Gentleman has said that that consultation has broken down.
§ Mr. ShinwellHas the right hon. Gentleman had any complaints from either side about the lack of consultation in respect of that Section?