HC Deb 10 December 1968 vol 775 cc63-4W
46. Mr. Dudley Smith

asked the Minister of Power whether, in view of the difficulties being experienced in carrying out the conversion operation to natural gas, he will appoint a senior official in his Department to supervise and coordinate this operation.

47. Sir B. Janner

asked the Minister of Power what representations he has received of hardship and annoyance being caused by the conversion of homes to natural gas; how many homes have been successfully converted with no deterioration of supply or function; and whether he will give an assurance that the project will now be undertaken with speed and accuracy.

49. Mr. Silvester

asked the Minister of Power whether he is satisfied with the progress of the natural gas conversion programme; and if he will make a statement.

Mr. Freeson

About 300,000 homes with a million appliances have been converted to natural gas. Three-quarters of these have been trouble-free. Most of the rest have had minor difficulties which have been quickly put right; but quite a number of people have suffered real inconvenience and hardship. Supervision and co-ordination of the conversion programme are the responsibilities of the Gas Council and Gas Boards and they are strengthening their organisations for this purpose.