§ 30. Mr. A. Robertsasked the Minister of Power, in view of the uncertainty that exists concerning the supply and demand of British indigenous fuels, and the recent change of policy in the supply of refined fuels, if he will recommend the appointment of a Royal Commission to inquire and advise on the fuel problems of the United Kingdom, with a view to giving guidance to the National Coal Board, the Central Electricity Authority, and the Gas Council on future planning to meet potential demand.
§ Mr. RobertsDoes not the Minister agree that all the uncertainties in the power industries since 1951 have been most confusing to the general public? Will he further consider this in view of the information which has been passed to the Ministry? I am sure he will agree that the statements made by Sir John Cockcroft and Sir Christopher Hinton concerning nuclear power have proved to be completely fallacious.
§ Mr. WoodThe hon. Member asked for a Royal Commission to go into this question. I do not think that a Royal Commission would be able to stabilise the balance between supply and demand, which is always changing in a changing economy which is exactly the reason, as I announced, for the changed programme for nuclear energy.
§ Mr. RobertsDoes not the Minister agree that this failure was mentioned in the Chamber three or four years ago and that it would be far better if a Royal Commission went into the matter properly and let the various authorities know what is the potential demand for a considerable number of years?
§ Mr. WoodI do not think that a Royal Commission would tell me anything which I cannot know at present.