HC Deb 27 June 1960 vol 625 cc956-7
31. Mr. A. Roberts

asked the Minister of Power how many conventional power stations are scheduled to be constructed during the next ten years.

Mr. Wood

The Generating Board plans to bring into operation seven thermal and two hydro-electrical power stations before the end of 1964. The number of new conventional stations to be built between 1965 and 1970 will depend on the growth of demand and on technical and economic developments.

Mr. Roberts

Does not the Minister agree that this policy does not give the right kind of leadership to the coal industry, in view of the statement made by a past Minister that the last conventional power station would be built before 1965?

Mr. Wood

I do not know what lead the coal industry wants. I have announced that conventional capacity will be considerably increased between 1960 and 1964, and no doubt further conventional stations will be built after that.