§ Sir STUART COATSasked the President of the Board of Trade, in view of the latest Order for the reduction in the consumption of coal, gas, and electricity, what steps he proposes to take to relieve the position of those who from patriotic motives have already, for the past year, economised to the furthest possible extent?
Sir A. STANLEYI have endeavoured to meet the case put by my hon. Friend by the provision in the Order that a consumer may take as the basis his consumption of gas or electricity for the corresponding quarter of either 1916 or 1917, whichever suits him best. Beyond that, a provision is included under which, before proceedings can be taken for the infringement of the requirements of Part II. of the Order of the Board of Trade, must call upon the consumer for an explanation of the apparent excessive consumption, and must consider such explanation. I need hardly say that where an explanation is found satisfactory no proceedings will be taken. At the same time, I must emphasise the pressing necessity that exists for a general reduction in the consumption of gas and electricity.