HC Deb 30 March 1965 vol 709 cc1384-5
27. Mr. Charles Morrison

asked the Minister of Power what is his policy on competition between the electricity, gas, coal and oil industries.

30. Mr. Peter Walker

asked the Minister of Power to what extent he intends to encourage competition between the gas, electricity, coal and oil industries.

31. Mr. loan L. Evans

asked the Minister of Power to what extent it is his policy to encourage co-operation between the coal, electricity and gas industries.

Mr. Frederick Lee

Some competition between the fuel industries is inevitable and desirable: and co-operation among the nationalised fuel industries is essential. The co-ordinated fuel policy which I am developing in my review will have regard to both aspects.

Mr. Walker

In view of the importance of this matter both in terms of the balance of payments situation and for social and economic reasons, would the right hon. Gentleman consider publishing a White Paper outlining his fuel policy?

Mr. Lee

I do not rule that out. I will certainly keep the House informed about this matter. It may be that it is not suitable for a White Paper.

Mr. Evans

Will my right hon. Friend work towards a national fuel policy so that the three Boards can work closely together to cut out wasteful competition?

Mr. Lee

Yes. As a matter of fact, I am having all three together this afternoon for that purpose.

Mr. Peyton

How long do we have to wait for a statement of the right hon. Gentleman's fuel policy? Does his reply mean that he will continue the policy of the last Government, which we would welcome? Will he say now when he will make his statement to explain the nebulous reply which he has just given?

Mr. Lee

I am very anxious to make the statement as soon as possible. I understand the hon. Gentleman's concern that this Government should do things more quickly than his Government did, but we also have a reputation for perfection and I want to keep that reputation.

Mr. P. Noel-Baker

Will my right hon. Friend consider that economising on imported oil may be one of the best ways of balancing our imports and exports account? Will he reverse the policy of the late Government in this regard?

Mr. Lee

We are very conscious of the problem of the balance of payments, and it is one of the points that we have under the most active consideration.

Mr. Geoffrey Lloyd

Will the right hon. Gentleman say who, at the meeting which he said would be held later this afternoon, will represent the interests of the consumers, both industrial and the householder?

Mr. Lee

I will.

Mr. Michael Foot

If my right hon. Friend discovers what was the policy of the previous Government, will he publish a White Paper saying what it was?

Mr. Lee

"If" is very important in that respect. If we find it, it will have to be a black paper.