§ 24. Sir W. Anstruther-Grayasked the Paymaster-General if he will make a statement on the progress made in his campaign for fuel saving in industry; and, in particular, whether he estimates that the target set by Sir Harry Pilkington's Committee will be achieved.
§ Mr. RentonThe National Industrial Fuel Efficiency Service, which is one of the principal bodies concerned in the problem of fuel efficiency, has confirmed that the target set by Sir Harry Pilkington's Committee is a reasonable one. I would refer my hon. and gallant 594 Friend to the Third Progress Survey recently published by N.I.F.E.S., from which he will see that satisfactory progress is being made towards that target.
§ Sir W. Anstruther-GrayWhile welcoming my hon. and learned Friend', announcement that satisfactory progress is being made, may I ask him to bear in mind that Sir Harry Pilkington's target was a long-term target? Would it not be a good plan to speed up its attainment in view of the great importance of this matter?
§ Mr. RentonI should remind my hon. Friend that Sir Harry Pilkington's target was an indication of savings which probably can be achieved rather than an estimate of the real scope for savings, which may, of course, be much greater. With the efforts of all concerned, and with the advice of N.I.F.E.S. and others, I am sure that Sir Harry Pilkington's target will not only be achieved, but may well be exceeded.
§ Mr. RobensHas the Minister read the address by the Chairman of the N.I.F.E.S. in presenting his report, which indicates that he is not very satisfied about the financing of the scheme? Has the hon. and learned Gentleman any comments to make about this?
§ Mr. RentonNot in answer to this Question.