33. Mr. Edward M. Taylorasked the Minister of Power what are the principal reasons why the price of gas in Scotland in 1966–67 was over 25 per cent. in excess of the average price in England and Wales.
§ Mr. FreesonThe principal reason was the higher cost of supply.
§ Mr. FreesonThe higher cost of supply produces higher pricing on the basis of the Answers to previous Questions.
§ Mr. W. BaxterI hope that my hon. Friend will reconsider his Answer to this and the previous Question and give more serious consideration to the very disadvantageous position of industry in Scotland when it has to pay so much more for fuel than industry in the South.
§ Mr. FreesonWe are aware of the difficulties here, but my hon. Friend will also be aware that many efforts are being made, chiefly by other Government Departments, to assist in the dispersal of industry and in getting industry to develop in those parts of the country, such as Scotland, which are in great need of it.
Mr. TaylorOn a point of order. In view of the unsatisfactory nature of the reply, I beg to give notice that I shall seek leave to raise this matter on the Adjournment at the earliest possible opportunity.