HC Deb 16 July 1964 vol 698 c1396
2. Mr. Box

asked the Minister of Power whether he is satisfied with the present constitution of the electricity consultative council in South Wales; and what plans he has to strengthen it.

Mr. Peyton

Yes, Sir, and I would like to take this opportunity of paying a tribute to the work of its members.

Mr. Box

Is my hon. Friend aware that his reply is rather a complacent one? Is he really satisfied that these consultative councils have sufficient power, and examine these rises sufficiently closely, to say, when an increase is passed on to the public, that it is entirely justified?

Mr. Peyton

I am in very close touch with these consultative councils and without in any way being complacent I am satisfied that they do a very useful job. I hope that my hon. Friend will bear in mind that all the members of these councils, except the chairmen, give their services for nothing and really do make a very useful contribution to the industry.