HC Deb 20 February 1961 vol 635 c22
39. Mr. Frank Allaun

asked the Minister of Power if he will state approximately the time and expenditure it will take to make the supply of domestic gas non-poisonous; and if he will make a statement.

The Parliamentary Secretary to the Ministry of Power (Mr. J. C. George)

The Gas Council has estimated that it would cost about £100 million and would take a very long time to make towns gas virtually non-poisonous. The development plans of the industry are being based, to an increasing extent, on processes which give rise to a gas relatively free from carbon monoxide and the Gas Council has recommended all area boards to try to reduce the carbon monoxide content of the gas distributed to below 10 per cent.

Mr. Allaun

Is the Parliamentary Secretary aware of the alarming number of deaths from leaking gas mains, particularly in older industrial areas such as Manchester and Salford? Since all that will be prevented when gas becomes entirely non-poisonous, does that not justify a bold and immediate plan, whatever the cost?

Mr. George

The number of deaths resulting from fractured mains is small, although it may get much publicity. But I agree that this is a serious matter, and urgent consideration is being and will be given to it by the Gas Council.

Mr. Skeet

Will my hon. Friend consider the advisability of using methane, or natural gas, which is non-toxic?

Mr. George

That is not covered by this Question.