§ Sir W. Davisonasked the Minister of Transport whether he has now had an opportunity of considering the large increase in charges for electricity of the Central London Electricity Company and other London companies; and having regard to his powers under the defence regulations is he satisfied that these increased charges will not impose an unjustified burden upon consumers; and generally what action is being taken by the Government in the matter?
§ Lieut.-Colonel Moore-BrabazonYes, Sir. The Electricity Commissioners have carefully examined the detailed figures submitted by Central London Electricity, Limited, of the actual results of working for the first six months of the current374W year and the effect on the company's sales of the recent intensification of air raid activity. On the information before me I am satisfied that there are no grounds for intervention at present. I have, however, asked the Electricity Commissioners to review the position again at the end of the current year. The electricity charges of the Notting Hill Electric Light Company, Limited, were the subject of a reply which my predecessor gave to my hon. and gallant Friend the Member for North Kensington (Mr. Duncan) on 17th September. The Electricity Commissioners keep under observation the charges of the other London companies but no case justifying action on my part has so far, arisen.