§ 9. Mr. Evelyn Kingasked the Minister of Power what gross profit was earned by the Southern Electricity Board in the year ended 31st March, 1964; and what is the estimated additional revenue likely to be obtained by recently announced increased charges to consumers.
§ Mr. Frederick LeeThe board's accounts published for the year ended 31st March, 1964, showed a trading surplus of just over £8 million (after depreciation but before interest). On the second part of the Question, I am asking the chairman to write to the hon. Member.
§ Mr. KingIs it not clear that the figures which the Minister has given for these additional charges imposed on my hard-hit constituents—and they will be harder hit before the afternoon is out —are quite unnecessary?
§ Mr. LeeThe Board considered that a price increase was needed to meet increases in costs, bulk supply tariffs, wages, and so on.