HC Deb 06 June 1967 vol 747 cc175-6W
86. Mr. Bessell

asked the Minister of Power what representations he has received from the South-West Regional Economic Planning Advisory Committee on the proposal to increase electricity charges in the South West; and if he will make a statement.

Mr. Freeson

I have seen a copy of a letter on this subject which the Chairman of the South Western Economic Planning Council sent to the Chairman of the South Western Electricity Board on 26th May. It is not possible to say what the increases will be in the South West until the Board's specific proposals under the arrangements for the early warning of price increases have been seen.

87. Mr. Bessell

asked the Minister of Power whether he will give directions to prevent electricity boards from increasing their charges in development areas during the present period of financial restraint.

Mr. Freeson

There will be no increases until after the period of severe restraint.

Mr. Arthur Lewis

asked the Minister of Power whether, in view of the Government's practice of referring small wage increases to the National Board for his decision not to refer the proposed 8 per cent. to 15 per cent. increase in Prices and Incomes, he will reconsider electricity charges to the Board.

Mr. Freeson

No. As my right hon. Friend explained in his Statement to the House on 12th May, the Government are satisfied that an increase in tariffs to improve the rate of return would be justified against the criteria for price increases after 30th June.—[Vol. 746, c. 1875–7.]

Mr. Arthur Lewis

asked the Minister of Power whether his estimate of a 0.3 per cent. rise in the cost of living resulting from the forthcoming 10 per cent. rise in the price of electricity takes account of the cumulative effects of the passing on of these increases by the steel industry, coal industry, road and rail industry, manufacturers, wholesalers, retailers, local authorities and central Government to the general public of the rise in the costs of these various sections of the country's industrial and administrative undertakings.

Mr. Marsh

Yes.

Mr. Bessell

asked the Minister of Power if he will give an assurance that no increase in electricity charges will be permitted before the House of Commons has had the opportunity to debate the matter.

Mr. Freeson

No. The House discussed the matter on 12th May.