§ 1. Mr. J. H. Osbornasked the Minister of Power what is the outcome of his Department's study of special electricity prices for large consumers.
§ The Minister of Power (Mr. Roy Mason)The possibility of special electricity prices for large consumers is the subject of continuing study by the electricity supply industry, in consultation with my Department. The industry's tariffs already confer considerable advantage on consumers with large and economical loads.
§ Mr. OsbornWhen are we to know what the tariffs will be and which are the industries concerned? Presumably aluminium, chemicals, and perhaps steel, are the industries. When are we to have a definite statement placed before the House on what is the policy?
§ Mr. MasonThere is no specific study as such. I should remind the House that the statutory responsibility for fixing electricity prices rests ultimately with the boards in consultation with the consultative councils.