§ 4. Mr. Hamlingasked the Minister of Power what discussions he has had with the gas industry on the availability of spare parts for machinery in gasworks to prevent breakdowns in gas supply next winter and danger to the public.
§ Mr. MarshThe provision of spare parts for gas plants is a matter for the gas industry. I am in very close touch with the industry on the whole question of gas supply prospects for the coming winter.
§ Mr. HamlingIs my right hon. Friend aware that the failure of private firms last winter to supply spare parts for this industry is bringing nationalisation into disrepute?
§ Mr. MarshI am aware that these breakdowns were due partly to failure of components provided by private companies, but I do not know that this is bringing nationalisation into disrepute. We would certainly have been in much more difficulty without them.
§ Sir J. Langford-HoltWould it be true to say that at the same time as these shortages were going on the industry was closing down gasworks that were operating satisfactorily?