HC Deb 23 March 1970 vol 798 cc974-5
45. Mr. Lubbock

asked the Minister of Technology if he will circulate in the OFFICIAL REPORT a list of power stations in respect of which the Central Electricity Generating Board has applied for consent to convert from coal firing to oil firing; and if in each case he will give the distance from the nearest existing or projected pipeline belonging to the Gas Council, in kilometres.

Mr. Harold Lever

The only outstanding case is Tilbury B, which is about 2.5 kilometres from a projected Gas Council pipeline.

Mr. Lubbock

As the combustion of natural gas would be pollution-free and as Tilbury is heavily built-up, may I ask the right hon. Gentleman to instruct, or request, the C.E.G.B. to investigate the use of natural gas in place of oil, and calculate the effect on the balance of payments that would ensue from the use of gas instead of oil?

Mr. Lever

The application is for conversion to oil, but I will certainly take into account all the relevant wider social considerations in coming to a decision.

Mr. Palmer

But would not my right hon. Friend agree that we have now reached the time when the nationalised electricity supply industry should be free to purchase natural gas just like any other consumer?

Mr. Lever

That aspect may be very relevant at some point, but the board has not made any application to buy natural gas in relation to this power station