§ Sir M. Galpernasked the Secretary of State for Scotland (1) in view of last year's profit of £860,000 and accumulated reserves of £2,250,000, whether he intends to sanction the proposed 6 per cent. increase in electricity charges by the North of Scotland Hydro-Electric Board;
(2) in view of the hardship that will be caused to domestic consumers, especially old-age pensioners living alone, whether he intends to sanction the proposed increase of 6 per cent. in electricity charges for the South of Scotland Electricity Board.
§ Mr. RossMy approval is riot required. The tariff increases are necessary in view of the financial and economic obligations234W of the Boards, and they have been agreed to by the two Scottish Electricity Consultative Councils.