§ Sir W. Davisonasked the Minister of Transport whether he is aware that certain London electricity companies have given notice to increase their charges owing to the reduction of consumption by reason of the black-out and the evacuation policy of the Government whereby many of their consumers have left London; and, in view of the serious hardship thereby occasioned to those citizens who have to remain in London for national or business reasons, what action the Government propose to take in the matter?
§ Captain WallaceI am aware that owing to the circumstances mentioned by my hon. Friend and to increasing costs certain London electricity companies, in common with various public authorities supplying electricity and gas undertakings, have found it necessary to increase their charges. The increases have not required my statutory approval, but I am keeping the position under careful observation.