§ 71. Colonel Clarkeasked the President of the Board of Trade the estimated requirements of poles for electricity distribution in the United Kingdom over the next two years; what supplies have already been contracted for; and what steps are being taken to provide the remainder.
§ Mr. BelcherThe Electricity Commission's estimates of requirements of poles are 90,000 in 1946 and 150,000 in 1947. Shortage of manpower and of materials, including poles, are likely to affect the fulfilment of all demands. Contracts have already been placed for some 150,000 imported poles against these and other requirements. In addition to imports, some supplies will be available from stocks in this country and from home production. All practicable steps are being taken to obtain maximum supplies of poles, as well as of other categories of timber, for priority purposes.