§ 25. Mr. Hector Hughesasked the Secretary of State for Scotland the nature and result of his conversations with the Minister of Transport and Civil Aviation and the Scottish Hydro-Electric authorities which were directed towards using Scottish electricity to charge batteries for battery-run locomotives on Scottish railways; and when and where he expects such locomotives to be available for use on Scottish railways.
§ The Secretary of State for Scotland (Mr. James Stuart)I have had no such conversations. I understand, however, that the North of Scotland Hydro-Electric Board have raised the matter with the British Transport Commission and that further discussions are in view.
§ Mr. HughesIs the Secretary of State aware that he has been widely credited with taking these progressive measure? If he has not taken them, will he have such conversations, because this matter is vitally important to industry and amenities in all Scotland?
§ Mr. StuartIt will be clear to the hon. and learned Gentleman that the North of Scotland Hydro-Electric Board has to provide electric power and it is for the British Transport Commission to look after the transport service. They are already in consultation.