HC Deb 28 March 1963 vol 674 cc1512-3
14. Sir J. Maitland

asked the Minister of Power if he will give a general direction to the East Midlands Electricity Board to speed up the supply of electricity to outlying country districts so that efficiency may be increased, additional employment provided, and rural economy generally stimulated.

Mr. Wood

I do not think it would be right for me to give a direction to the Board on this matter.

Sir J. Maitland

Does my right hon. Friend realise that a development project of £400,000, which is ready to start at this moment, and which would provide considerable employment, is being held up because of the slowness in supplying electricity in Mablethorpe, which is an area of high unemployment? Will my right hon. Friend consider this matter again?

Mr. Wood

I am aware of this matter, because my hon. Friend has drawn attention to it, but I still do not think that it would be right to direct the Board in this matter. In developing supplies to rural and other areas in this country the Board has the responsibility to balance the need for supplies there with the obligation to cover its costs and to give no undue preference. In fact, the Board concerned has made a remarkable advance and has achieved a higher rate of electrification than the average board throughout the country.