§ 21. Mr. Wingfield Digbyasked the Minister of Power if, in settling the general research programme of the electricity industry, he will request them to inquire into the many breakdowns in supply, causing power cuts with consequent inconvenience to private users and farmers, especially every time there are gales or snow.
§ Mr. John MorrisThe boards already investigate the causes of interruptions and constantly seek ways of safeguarding supplies in their research programmes, which are settled in consultation with my right hon. Friend.
§ Mr. DigbyIs the hon. Gentleman aware that these interruptions have been very frequent this winter in Somerset and Dorset, sometimes lasting for more than 24 hours on end, and that they are highly inconvenient for my constituents and for farmers particularly who rely on electricity for milking?
§ Mr. MorrisI am aware that there were several interruptions in the south and south-west of England on 27th December. These were due to ice forming on overhead lines. The board has expressed regret for the inconvenience caused to consumers, and the local Press praised the efforts of its engineers to restore supplies in difficult conditions.