§ Mr. W. THORNEasked the President of the Board of Trade whether he is aware that the Metropolitan borough of Islington has sent a circular to its electricity consumers stating that, in consequence of an advance of nearly 70 per cent. in coal prices, the council is compelled to increase the price of electricity commencing with the March quarter; and whether, seeing that the expectancy that charges for coal would not be materially increased has not been realised, he will take further action in the matter?
§ Mr. PRETYMANI understand that the borough council of Islington has sent out such a circular. The Electric Lighting Order under which the council supply electricity fixes the maximum charges which1788W may be made to consumers. Electric lighting undertakers are acting within their statutory powers in varying their prices so long as the prescribed maximum is not exceeded. I presume that the pit-mouth price of the coal the council are buying complies with the provisions of the Price of Coal (Limitation) Act.