§ 41. Mr. Pentlandasked 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. WoodI have received no application under the Electrical (Supply) Acts for consent to build a new station on or near the Durham coalfield.
§ Mr. PentlandThis 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. WoodI 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.