§ 2.48 p.m.
LORD HAWKEMy Lords, nearly three weeks ago your Lordships gave a Second Reading to the Civil Defence (Electricity Undertakings) Bill, and subsequently duly passed it. On the Second Reading I stated that the draft regulations would be laid speedily, and to-day I have to move their approval. Their 564 objects are simple and are precisely the same as those of the draft regulations for gas and transport which we have already approved—namely, to enable the Minister to make grants to electricity undertakings in respect of works carried out by them to enable them to function under enemy attack. The rate of grant is to be up to 52¾ per cent., a rate which I have already explained when dealing with the gas regulations. With the power of grant goes the power of calling for information the power of giving directions and the power of imposing penalties for noncompliance. We have already had some debate on the principles involved, when your Lordships approved the Bill itself and the draft orders relating to gas and transport, and I take it that the House would not wish me to say more at present but rather to reply to any specific points made by any noble Lord. I beg to move that the regulations be approved.
§ Moved, That the Civil Defence (Electricity Undertakings) Regulations. 1954, reported from the Special Orders Committee on Wednesday last, be approved.— (Lord Hawke.)
§ On Question, Motion agreed to.