§ Lieut.-Colonel Sharpasked the Chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster why there have been substantial cuts in the allocation of electric power to essential industries in the British zone of Germany; and whether such supplies will be restored or increased in the near future.
§ Mr. J. HyndCuts of power in our zone of Germany have been necessary owing to our inability to meet, from our very limited coal supplies, the heavy demands for power from all consumers, including the French and American zones and Allied countries. An increase in power supplies can be obtained only if more coal is made available. In the meantime, it has been agreed with the other consumers that there shall be an all-round decrease in demand, and the consequent reduction in exports304W should help to alleviate the situation in the British zone.