§ Mr. Arthur Lewisasked the Secretary of State for Energy whether, in view of the £320 million annual profit 454W obtained by the Central Electricity Generating Board, he will take steps to prevent a further increase in electricity prices.
§ Mr. MellorThe figure of £320 million is the estimated operating profit, before interest, for 1981–82; after interest payments and other adjustments the CEGB expects a loss of about £160 million. Taking account of announced price increases for 1982–83, the electricity supply industry as a whole is expected to make a loss after interest in that year.