HC Deb 28 March 1960 vol 620 cc935-6
20. Mr. Fitch

asked the Minister of Power if a decision has yet been reached as to whether Littlebrook B and Bruns- wick Wharf Power stations are to remain coal-fired.

Mr. Wood

Discussions are still going on.

Mr. Fitch

Is the Minister aware that any decision to change to oil-firing would cause the greatest dismay in the coal mining industry? In view of the amount of coal stocked, will he see that this does not happen?

Mr. Wood

I will bear in mind what the hon. Gentleman says. I do not think it would be right to comment in detail about the matter at present.

Mr. Lee

Would not the Minister agree that in discussion in the House he has intimated that the Electricity Authority wishes to get back to coal-firing in many of the stations which have been on oil? Here we have two stations which have never been off coal, as I understand it; certainly they are on coal now. Would it not be a most retrograde step if at this stage they went on to oil-firing?

Mr. Wood

I take note of the hon. Gentleman's remarks. I do not think he would expect me to comment at this moment.