§ 82. Mr. Gunterasked the Minister of Fuel and Power why diesel generators in the possession of the Southend-on-Sea Corporation were only being used at peak periods until 21st February; upon what date instructions were issued for their full-time use; what information was tendered by the corporation prior to 21st February concerning the generators; and why par- 322W tial resumption of work cannot take place at certain factories in South-East Essex, in view of the full-time use now being made of these generators.
§ Mr. ShinwellNo instructions regarding the operation of this diesel plant were issued by the Central Electricity Board, and it was within the discretion of the Southend Corporation to use it as they thought fit. The plant in question is over 30 years old, and in view of its age and liability to breakdown there are severe limits on its continuous use. Information on this plant has been available to the Electricity Commission and the Central Electricity Board for a number of years. Normally it is operated only at peak times. It was brought into fuller operation on the date given by my hon. Friend, and the Central Electricity Board offered to refund the extra cost falling on the corporation through its more extended use. The question of a partial resumption of supplies is a general one which cannot be determined by any change in the use of this particular plant.