§ 4. Mr. Bryant Godman Irvineasked the Minister of Power if he will seek power to vary the 4 per cent. interest rate laid down in Section 71 of the Schedule to the Electric Lighting (Clauses) Act, 1899.
§ Mr. Godman IrvineIs the Minister aware that, before a new customer is accepted and given supplies, where he may require large quantities of electricity a substantial deposit has to be made? Therefore, is the Minister satisfied that rates of interest prevailing in 1899 are realistic today?
§ Mr. MasonI am not aware that it is causing any difficulties. The boards are entitled to pay more if they wish to do so, and some boards do.