HC Deb 01 February 1966 vol 723 cc861-2
10. Sir G. Sinclair

asked the Minister of Power in view of the recent failures of gas supplies, especially from 28th to 30th December, in East and West Horsley and adjoining areas, what steps he is taking to ensure that there are no further interruptions of supply between now and the coming into operation of the new transmission main expected in May, 1966.

Mr. Frederick Lee

I am informed by the South Eastern Gas Board that the necessary steps have been taken to reinforce the supply of gas.

Sir G. Sinclair

But is the right hon. Gentleman aware that the recent breakdowns were due to the failure of booster pumps which had failed before and that no spares were held locally? Will he ensure that, in future, vital spares are held locally?

Mr. Lee

There is a little more to it than that. What the hon. Member says is right, but there was also a blockage in a distribution main. They now have the necessary adjunct to the distribution system. Even if they had had the equipment at that time, they could not possibly have used it. I understand that they now have the necessary parts.