Mr. JENKINSasked the Minister of Transport whether he can state the cost per unit for electricity to householders in the districts supplied in the area of the South Wales Power Company, Limited?
Mr. HORE-BELI SHAThe company supply electricity in many districts, both urban and rural, and householders have the option of being charged on a two-part tariff or on various flat rates or block rates. The two-part tariff consists of a 577W fixed quarterly charge based on floor area or number of rooms (the minimum charge varying between 9s. and 12s. per quarter) and a unit charge varying from ¾d, to ⅝d per unit, with a reduced charge varying from ¾d. to ⅝d. after certain minimum quantities have been consumed.
The block, rate for lighting varies from 6d to 7d. per unit, with a reduced charge after certain quantities have been con-sinned, while the prepayment meter rate for lighting varies between 6½d. and 7½d. per unit. The flat rate for heating and cooking varies between lid. and lid. per unit. The average revenue per unit sold for lighting, heating and cooking appears last year to have been 3.28 pence.
§ Mr. SMEDLEY CROOKEasked the Minister of Transport whether, in view of the prevailing need of the farming industry for electricity for lighting and power, he will take the necessary steps with the power companies to accelerate the, supply to the farmers?
Mr.HORE-BELISHA: Electricity supply undertakers are constantly extending their mains into the rural areas. If my hon. Friend has in view any particular cases, I should be pleased to look into the possibility of expediting development.