§ Viscount CURZONasked the Prime Minister whether the War lighting re- 2108W strictions can be introduced for the duration of the present stoppage in the coal industry to ensure an economy in the use of fuel; and whether he is satisfied that the people as a whole are economising sufficiently in the use of fuel in lighting, heat, and power generally?
§ Mr. BRIDGEMANI have been asked to reply. The question whether the drastic restrictions upon lighting adopted during the recent War should be reimposed during the present emergency has been carefully considered, but I am of opinion that it would be inadvisable to adopt them in their entirety. I am not, however, satisfied that the present restrictions are in all cases being fully observed, and it has, therefore, been found desirable to call the special attention of local authorities and public utility undertakings to the need for strict compliance with the Directions already issued. If my Noble Friend is aware of specific cases of non-compliance with the Directions, I shall be glad to enquire into them.