HC Deb 18 July 1939 vol 350 cc217-8W
Mr. Leonard

asked the Minister of Transport what power is produced by the hydro-electric plant at Rannoch tunnel, in North Perthshire; to what extent have monopoly rights been granted in its distribution; and how long such contracts can continue?

Captain Wallace

The Rannoch Generating Station of the Grampian Electricity Supply Company generated during the year ended December, 1938, nearly 102 million units of electricity. The company can use the electricity generated at this station for any of the authorised purposes of its undertaking, comprising supply in bulk to other undertakers, including the Central Electricity Board, supply for power purposes, and general supply in their distribution areas in which they have a monopoly. The powers of supply are given under Statute, not by contract, and are in perpetuity except that certain powers of general distribution are subject to purchase after 42 years from the grant of the powers.

Mr. Leonard

asked the Minister of Transport whether any survey has been made in Scotland of the potential hydro electric power that may exist, and plans discussed for its use?

Captain Wallace

Yes, Sir. A survey was made in 1918–20 by the Water Power Resources Committee of the Board of Trade. The results of that survey and of other investigations are referred to in the report, issued last year, of the sub-committee of the Scottish Economic Committee on the Highlands and Islands of Scotland.