HC Deb 03 July 1961 vol 643 c1003
41. Mr. Pentland

asked the Minister of Power what application has now been made to him for financial authority to proceed with the building of a new power station on or near the Durham coalfield.

Mr. Wood

I have received no application under the Electrical (Supply) Acts for consent to build a new station on or near the Durham coalfield.

Mr. Pentland

This is a very disappointing reply. Is the Minister aware that a new power station on the Durham coalfield would be of tremendous importance to the economic well-being and industrial future of the county? Will he once again consult the Generating Board and impress upon it the urgency of this matter?

Mr. Wood

I know the hon. Gentleman's concern, and I know the great concern felt in the North-East of England, about this question. I told the hon. Gentleman on 1st May that the Generating Board would take great notice of the Question he then asked me, and I have no doubt that the Board is continuing its consideration of suitable sites for power stations in the whole country.