§ 7. Mr. Sheldonasked the Minister of Power, in the light of his proposed legislation on the subject, what is the extent of manufacturing capacity of the Gas and Electricity Boards, other than supply; and what plans he has to extend such manufacturing capacity.
§ Mr. Frederick LeeThe capacity of the nationalised gas industry and the Central Electricity Generating Board to manufacture plant and equipment is at present negligible. It would be for the industries to initiate proposals for expanding their capacity within their statutory powers.
§ Mr. SheldonDoes my right hon. Friend agree that the manufacture of a wide range of gas and electrical appliances and equipment would be in the best interests of the nationalised industries concerned, to the extent that this would create more fully integrated industries? Will he consider this point and see what he can do in order to emulate some of the best examples of private enterprise in this regard?
§ Mr. LeeAs my hon. Friend will remember, my right hon. Friend the Minister of Transport, on 31st March, made a statement about the Government's proposal to introduce legislation for that purpose. That is still the policy of the Government.