§ Mr. Shinwellasked the Minister of Power (1) what facts were placed before him by the North-East Electricity Authority to justify an increase in charges when he was consulted by that body;
(2) whether he will publish in the OFFICIAL REPORT the facts relating to the claim to impose increased charges by the various electricity authorities in the country.
§ Mr. John MorrisBefore electricity boards increase their charges I am given in confidence particulars of their cost increases, the tariff changes they propose and the effects on consumers' bills. It is for the Boards to publish the relevant information when they announce revised tariffs.
§ Mr. Woofasked the Minister of Power, in view of the proposed increase in electricity charges by the North-Eastern Electricity Board, which will cost the average householder 10s. to 11s. per quarter, what information regarding the factors causing these increases and the cost of production of electricity he was given during his recent consultation with the Electricity Board; and whether he will make a statement.
§ Mr. John MorrisI would refer my hon. Friend to the reply given to my right hon. Friend the Member for Easington (Mr. Shinwell), this afternoon.