HC Deb 10 November 1958 vol 595 cc30-1
51. Mr. Palmer

asked the Paymaster-General if he will make a statement on the progress to date of the scheme for the interconnection of the French and British electrical power systems; and if he will give the present anticipated date for the interconnection to come into use.

Mr. Maudling

The converting plant has been ordered and is being manufactured; prototype valves are undergoing a test. Cable trials have been carried out by the Generating Board and Electricité de France and the results of the trials are being examined. Public inquiries have been held on the proposed routes for the associated 275 kV transmission lines and the site for the converter substation at Lydd. Subject to the outcome of these inquiries, it is hoped that trial runs prior to commissioning will be possible by the end of 1960, and that, if these are satisfactory, the line can be brought into use during 1961.

Mr. Palmer

While thanking the right hon. Gentleman for that information, may I ask whether he does not agree that this scheme which is being carried through is a tremendous project and is the responsibility of two nationally-owned industries? Will he draw the attention of the Federation of British Industries to that fact?

Mr. Maudling

The Federation of British Industries is well aware of the fact that this is a very important project which will save a great deal of capital cost to this country.