HC Deb 02 February 1961 vol 633 c1176
31. Mr. Grey

asked the President of the Board of Trade if he is aware of the short supply of 140 sodium discharge lamps for street lighting resulting from concentration of the lamp manufacturing industry; and if he will refer this industry to the Monopolies Commission for their consideration.

Mr. Maudling

If the hon. Member has evidence that the conditions to which the Monopolies and Restrictive Practices Act, 1948, applies prevail in respect of such lamps, I shall be glad to take it into account when I am considering possible new references to the Monopolies Commission.

Mr. Grey

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that Hetton Urban District Council is finding it extremely difficult to obtain sodium discharge lamps? I am informed that other local authorities are having similar difficulties. The position is aggravated by the fact that the ones that have been supplied are not living up to their guaranteed lives. Does not the right hon. Gentleman think it ridiculous for the Ministry of Transport to issue directions to all local authorities to provide better street lighting when this kind of thing takes place? Will he consider investigating the matter?

Mr. Maudling

I will investigate any evidence the hon. Gentleman is kind enough to send me.