§ Mr. Garro-Jonesasked the Minister of Transport whether he is aware that the Electricity Commissioners have called upon electric supply companies to submit to them their proposals to make issues of capital, and have assumed power to assent or withhold their approval thereto; and if he will state under what statutory authority the Commissioners are acting in such cases?
§ Mr. Hore-BelishaI am not aware that the Commissioners have assumed any powers not given to them by Statute. They have power, in certain cases, to make a Special Order conferring additional capital powers on an electricity supply company. Upon any application for such a Special Order, the Commissioners are entitled to exercise their discretion in deciding whether to make or to refuse to make the Order. Any Order made is subject to confirmation by me and approval by Parliament. A company may alternatively apply direct to Parliament for additional capital powers.