HC Deb 08 December 1964 vol 703 c1310
20. Mr. Tinn

asked the Minister of Power whether he will take steps to alter the conditions of connecting groups of isolated cottages to mains electricity, so that occupiers who refuse to join a scheme are not subsequently connected to the supply without bearing their share of the capital cost.

Mr. John Morris

I regret that my right hon. Friend has no power to deal with my hon. Friend's point under existing legislation.

Mr. Tinn

Is my hon. Friend aware that that is a disappointing Answer? Will he consider amending the legislation so as to give the Minister power to remove this anomaly, which causes considerable injustice to people who live in isolated cottages?

Mr. Morris

I cannot say when it will be possible for my right hon. Friend to introduce amending legislation. As for the general point, as the electrification of the countryside nears completion the problem becomes a diminishing one. In practice, in most cases boards manage to settle these difficulties by agreement.